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jy^yx. s V./U'^/73 jL6 


THE 


DOCTOR’S FAMILY; 


OR. 


THE STORY OF THE ERLAUS. 


TRANSLATED FROM THE GERMAN OF 

ELIZABETH"' HALDEN j iAjULod ^3 

BY 

MARY IRELAND. 



AMERICAN TRACT SOCIETY, 

10 EAST 23D STREET, NEW YORK. 



GoNTB-NTS 




CHAPTER I. 

Examination-Day ..page 5 

CHAPTER II. 

Naming the Birds 19 

CHAPTER III. 

Eric and Fritz Visit their Home 29 

CHAPTER IV. 

Margaret’s First Party 43 

CHAPTER V. 

Shadows 56 

CHAPTER VI. 

The Pearl Necklace 71 

CHAPTER VII. 

A Visit to Berlin 90 

CHAPTER VIII. 

The Troubles of War 109 


4 


CONTENTS, 


CHAPTER IX. 

After the Storm 

CHAPTER X. 

Lights and Shadows 143 

CHAPTER XI. 

In the Valley of the Shadow 165 

CHAPTER XII. 


Frieda’s Good Work 


178 


rHE DOCTOR’S FAMILY. • 


CHAPTER I. 

EXAMINA TION-DA Y. 

''Who lives in that large old-time stone house, with 
small windows and gable end to the street and the yard 
brilliant with flowers asked a stranger in the village 
of Friehausen, of the friend whom she was visiting. 

"Our honored physician, Dr. Anton Erlau, his 
excellent wife and interesting children : two boys — Eric 
and Fritz, and four girls — Margaret, Meta, Frieda, and 
Else. Their home is called ' The Nest. ’ '' 

"It is a unique nest, and looks comfortable and 
homelike.” 

" It is a charming old place ; has been in the posses- 
sion of the Erlau family more than a century, and each 
generation has added to it until it is a labyrinth of 
unexpected nooks and corners, and with winding corri- 
dors with a step up or down, apt to bring the unwary 
stranger to grief ” 

" Does its great age give it a gloomy look ?” 

"No, although the ceilings are composed of heavy 
beams and the tiles in the ground floor are chocolate 
color.” 


6 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


*^How very different it appears from modern dwel- 
lings, wearing as it does a look of ancient grandeur.” 

*^Yes; Dr. Erlau is proud of it. In his grand- 
father's time there was a' terrible conflagration which 
swept away nearly the whole village of Friehausen ; all 
the dwellings in this part of it went up in smoke with 
the exception of The Nest. It remained unscathed, and 
seems to view with patriarchal and benevolent leniency 
the frailties of its weaker neighbors. ” 

‘‘ I presume the present owner is rich.” 

''No; he is the only one of the long line of proprie- 
tors who can lay no claim to wealth. The family has 
furnished worthy biirgermeisters, pastors, and learned 
jurists, but the possessions have dwindled away. The 
gold which his ancestors kept in the strong box, as was 
the custom of the times, had disappeared when he suc- 
ceeded to the estate, and of the jewels of the ladies of 
the family only a pearl necklace remains.” 

" Then Dr. Erlau did not marry a wealthy lady ?” 

"Oh, no ; she was an orphan, without riches, except 
those of piety and a cheerful loving heart. They are 
active, useful members of the church, and the elder chil- 
dren have been received into communion by the same 
pastor who received the father in his early manhood. 
The younger ones will follow in turn.” 

"Were his parents living when Dr. Erlau brought 
his bride to the old home .?” 

"His father had been dead many years, but his 
mother welcomed tenderly the wife of her only son and 
was a mother to her as long as she lived. Yes, the 


EXAMINATION-DAY. J 

young wife was made cordially welcome to the quaint 
old homestead/' 

'‘One would suppose its ancient appearance would 
render it dreary. " 

" It is as bright as any home I know, if not brighter. 
True, the old family portraits in tarnished frames look 
down from the walls, and the heavy carved furniture is 
dark with age ; but Frau Erlau's handiwork gives color 
to the rooms, fresh, fragrant flowers are everywhere, 
and the voices of happy children add to making the 
place cheerful. The atmosphere of pious, peaceful, 
loving home-life in The Nest has its influence upon all 
v^ho are privileged to visit there." 

This opinion voiced that of all the residents of Frie- 
hausen ; the Erlaus were honored and loved for their 
genuine goodness and kindness to all about them. 

One afternoon Frau Erlau sat by the window of the 
sitting-room, but taking little interest in what was pass- 
ing without. She was restless and anxious, and even 
the chatter of little Else could not win a smile from her. 
It was examination-day at the Institute, and the children 
would soon come home with their reports. She had 
always felt more or less anxious upon these occasions, 
but that time particularly so ; for the two sons, Eric and 
Fritz, were hoping for promotion to higher schools. 
Her sewing had no interest for her, and after a time she 
went to the kitchen where Reika, the faithful old cook, 
was preparing supper. She had served in the household 
long before Frau Erlau had become a member of it, and 
loved the children as though they were her own. She 


8 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


was not accustomed to having her mistress assume 
oversight of her work, yet she remained placid while 
Frau Erlau lifted the lid from a bubbling kettle and 
looked in. 

‘'Do you think you can have supper at the usual 
hour, Reika ?” she said. 

‘ ‘ Oh, yes, Frau Doctorin ; our boys shall not have 
to wait too long,'' replied the good woman, fully under- 
standing and sympathizing with the unrest. 

“Do you think you have cooked enough, Reika.?" 

“Yes, gracious lady, and plenty left for the poor 
patients of the Herr Doctor. " 

“Are you thinking we will not have our usual appe- 
tites, Reika.?" 

“ I hope we will." 

“What is it you dread, Reika; do you think Eric 
will fail .?" 

“Eric.? No, indeed, no fear for him ; he will come 
home full of himself. If Fritz only gets along half so 
well we should be happy. " 

“Reika, how can you say that ! Fritz is not a dull 
boy ; you should see that I am anxious that both my 
boys pass." 

“You need not worry about Eric ; he will be a great 
scholar. Nor is there any call to worry about Fritz. 
Just look at that china-closet he made. If his examina- 
tion was for carpenter, or wood-carver, or locksmith, he 
would be number one ; but for book-learning you must 
not expect too much. What his eyes see his hands can 
make, and without books," 


EXAMINA TION-DA V. 


9 


Heavenly Father knows that I am not fool- 
ishly ambitious/' said the mother, with tear-filled eyes, 
''but it will be a terrible disappointment to his father; 
it would be the first lime an Erlau was not honored for 
his learning. They have all been professional men or 
bürgermeisters. " 

Reika laid aside the knife with which she pared the 
fruit, emptied the parings, and set the pears over the 
fire before replying. 

"Yes, that is just the trouble; the Herr Doctor 
will not be satisfied, but will make the poor boy 
miserable by forcing hard lessons into a head that pro- 
tests against them. We can only pray that the dear 
God will have pity on Fritz and change his father s 
mind." 

Frau Erlau felt no annoyance at the freedom of the 
old servant, well knowing the faithful interest she took 
in the children. She honored the sterling qualities she 
possessed, and if at times there was a sturdy indepen- 
dence of opinion not in accord with her own she let it 
pass without comment. 

So in this instance she returned to the sitting-room 
and tried to become interested in her sewing, but with- 
out avail ; it dropped unnoticed from her hands, and 
her thoughts were upon the words of Reika. 

Presently she heard light footsteps near her, and a 
pair of plump arms were clasped about her neck. 

"Mamma," said a sweet voice, "I am sure papa 
will hear all about the examination before he comes 
home, and if Fritz fails he will not be so much disap- 


10 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


pointed as you think, for he has not hoped very much, 
and his joy over Eric will lighten it/’ 

^*Why do you think Fritz will fail?” asked the mo- 
ther as she pressed a kiss upon the forehead of the little 
Frieda, who having been blind from birth was the pet, 
carefully guarded by the whole family. 

‘‘I don’t know why I feel so, but I am quite sure 
Eric will be promoted and Fritz will fail. ” 

'‘I have thought so, too, for some time, my Frieda, 
yet tried to hope for the best. ” 

‘^But, mother, if you still hope, the disappointment 
will be greater. ” 

There was no time to reply, for at that moment the 
door flew open and a tall boy entered, his cheeks flushed 
and his eyes beaming with joy ; it was Eric. 

Mother, I am promoted!” cried he exultingly ; 
‘‘the next step is the University. The teachers say I 
have talent, and I intend to cultivate it. You shall see 
me a noted scholar and physician.” 

“Too much ambition is a failing, my son ; do not 
make learning your idol,” said Frau Erlau, while her 
eyes were bright with pleasure at his success. 

“ How can I help being ambitious, mother, when all 
praise me so at school ? Father shall see that one of his 
sons will keep up the reputation of the family. The old 
name of Erlau shall live in me. ” 

“Why may not that be said also of Fritz?” ques- 
tioned his mother anxiously. “You should not ignore 
him ; he has brought no discredit upon us. ” 

“Nor credit,” replied Eric, curling his lip. “ He is 


EXAMINA TIONDA Y, 


II 


studious enough, but has a poor memory. They make 
fun of him, and it will be made so long as he goes to 
school.'’ 

''And no doubt you did not defend him as he would 
have defended you had the case been reversed. Fritz is 
an honorable, affectionate boy, and would not hurt any 
one's feelings." 

"But I have no patience with his dullness ; he could 
do better if he would." 

"It robs me of pleasure in your success to hear you 
speak thus of your brother," said Frau Erlau. 

"But, mother, you don't know how mortified I am 
to see him blundering over his answers to the simplest 
questions. I could answer them instantly." 

"But I wish you to be more humble and more help- 
ful to Fritz. Give thanks to God, who has blessed you 
with a strong, active mind, but do not look down upon 
one who is slower of understanding. The tortoise has 
been known to eclipse the hare. I do not like to see 
you so self-seeking." 

" I had expected more pride in my success, mother," 
said Eric, flushing vividly. "I thought you would 
rejoice at my promotion." 

"I do rejoice, my son, but it grieves me that you 
are taking all the credit to yourself, instead of being 
grateful to your Heavenly Father for giving you perhaps 
five talents, and that you are not more helpful to others to 
whom he in his divine wisdom has not given so many. " 

The conversation was interrupted by the entrance of 
Margaret and Meta, who had just come from the Insti- 


12 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY. 


tute and, though full of their own success, must first 
speak of the praise given Eric for his brilliant examina- 
tion. They were followed by Emmi, an orphan whom 
Dr. Erlau — being her guardian — had taken into his 
family. 

“You will go to the University,'' cried Meta joy- 
ously. “Oh, I wish I could go! but as I cannot I 
will wait until you are a celebrated physician or a learned 
professor and will keep house for you." 

“ Oh, the poor house I" laughed Eric. “ If you are 
thinking of that I hope you will take a few lessons in the 
kitchen. " 

“I did not say I was to be your cook," replied Meta, 
reddening. “Your sister should not be a drudge, but 
a companion and helper in your work. " 

“O most honored Minerva I A woman doctor! 
Of course you will attend to the pills and potions while 
I oversee the pans and skillets." 

“Quite likely I shall have a profession," replied she 
proudly. “ I am promoted to the first class, and the 
committee said it was seldom that a girl of thirteen has 
that honor. He says I am an ornament to the Insti- 
tute." 

“But I doubt if your father will approve of your 
leaving the class you are in," remarked Frau Erlau. 

The eyes of Meta filled with tears, and she left the 
room hastily, fearing that Eric would notice them. 

“Is that your report, Margaret?" questioned the 
Frau Doctorin, glancing 'at the folded paper in her 
daughter's hand. 


EXAMINA TION DA Y. 1 3 

‘*Yes, mother," was the reply as she reluctantly 
passed it for inspection. 

‘'The same old complaints of idleness in school. 
You are too fond of dress ; your thoughts are set upon 
your appearance to the exclusion of your studies." 

“But, mother, you wish and expect us to look neat. 
I cannot be that without taking time to it. Besides, I 
passed. " 

“ But attention to dress must be kept within bounds. 
Vanity is one of the failings cultivated by a too anxious 
wish to look well in the eyes of others. " 

Margaret glanced up at Eric, very sure of seeing the 
satirical smile with which he was wont to look upon his 
sisters' little faults and foibles, and was not disappoint- 
ed ; it was there, and remained until a rebuking glance 
from his mother dispelled it. 

“How is it with you, Emmi?" said Frau Erlau, 
turning to the small figure that was trying to keep in 
the background. “I suppose you were not promoted; 
but I know you have done your best." 

Emmi, though nearly the age of Meta, was very 
backward in her studies ; but the discouraged look left 
her face at the kind words of Frau Erlau, and she put 
the paper into her extended hand with a flush of hope 
illumining her sweet face. 

“Just as I thought," commented Frau Erlan : “ must 
remain in that class, but words of hearty praise for 
diligence and improvement. You deserve credit, 
dear. " 

Emmi's face reddened with pleasure, and the others 


14 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


were pleased at their mother s approval, for all loved the 
gentle girl. 

Where is Fritz? It is time he was here,'' said 
Frau Erlau. 

He is in his room ; I saw him go in and shut the 
door," said Emmi. 

The mother arose and hastily left the little group, 
feeling sure that Fritz had nothing agreeable to report. 

'‘He is afraid the sun will be jealous of his bright- 
ness, so has secluded himself," said Eric to Margaret in 
a low tone. 

The room belonging to the brothers was a large 
square room, comfortably but simply furnished. Two 
beds on old-time high-posted bedsteads, two equally old- 
time dressing-bureaus, two washstands and tables and 
two chairs completed the furniture, though the boys had 
added many adornments showing their individual tastes. 
Before one of the tables sat Fritz, his head resting upon 
his folded arms, and near him stood Frieda, tears of 
sympathy in her beautiful sightless eyes. 

The mother’s heart throbbed with pity : she went 
forward and clasped her arms about them. 

"It is no use, mother," said the boy, raising his pale 
face from the table, "I have not the least talent for 
the higher branches. I have failed. What will father 
think ?" 

Frau Erlau said nothing ; she tenderly smoothed 
the hair from his heated forehead, and tears of sympathy 
filled her eyes. 

"Eric would not walk home with me," continued 


EXAMINA TIONDA K 


15 


Fritz. He is ashamed of me, and no wonder : he is the 
smartest boy in the Institute and I among the dullest. 
Prof. Frohman was so disappointed in me ! And that 
adds to my distress, for he has been always so patient 
and kind. I missed questions I know as well as my 
own name, but the answer seemed to leave my mem- 
ory the moment I was called upon. In mathematics 
I did well, but in oral questions of all kinds I was a 
failure.'' 

The quick ear of Frieda had heard her father's step 
in the hall, and she was off like a flash to welcome him. 

^‘Frieda will tell your father all about it, Fritz; 
do n’t worry any more : your failure was not through in- 
dolence or inattention, and that will go far to lessen his 
disappointment. Cheer up ; bathe your face and hands 
and come down to supper when the bell rings. I am 
sure you will feel better than you think possible now 
when we have all met and talked it over and kissing 
his forehead she left the room, and slowly descending a 
long corridor opened a door at the end of it, and enter- 
ing sat down on a low rocking-chair to reflect. 

It was a large apartment and a fragrant smell of 
freshly laundried linen pervaded it. Cleanliness which 
amounted to purity showed in the polished windows and 
glass doors of the linen presses, where piles upon piles 
of sheets, pillow-cases, table-cloths, napkins, and other 
household articles lay in snowy repose, each pile bound 
by its embroidered band. Not a sound disturbed the 
stillness, and the serenity which silent prayer always 
brought to her was not wanting. 


i6 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


To this room the mother of her husband had brought 
her the day she came as a bride to The Nest, and she 
yet remembered her words : ' ' Each succeeding genera- 
tion of the women of our house has contributed its 
share to this room. They have filled these linen-presses 
and chests, and order and neatness have always character- 
ized it. Every mother of a family should have a room 
where she can come to commune with God and her own 
soul ; and surely no more quiet spot than this could be 
found. '' 

The Frau Doctorin had followed her advice, and in 
time the linen-room became a sweet haven of rest from 
which she returned to her family with tranquil heart and 
peaceful brow. 

The ringing of the bell aroused her and she went 
down to supper, passing through the sitting-room on her 
way. Dr. Erlau was in his large arm-chair, with Frieda 
upon his knee and the other children grouped about 
him. 

'' Mother has been in the linen - room, '' said he 
cheerily, ‘^trying to reconcile herself to the thought of 
her students leaving the home nest. '' 

Frau Erlau looked earnestly to see if he were in jest, 
but his face gave no token as to his knowledge of the 
result of the examination. 

‘‘Don’t worry, mother, it will be all right,” said he 
tenderly. “Our Fritz will perhaps fail in being a great 
scholar, but may mark out a course for himself— and one 
not dishonorable ; of that I am satisfied. ” 

“Oh, I am glad you are not terribly disappoint- 


EXAMINATION-DAY, 1 7 

ed said Frau Erlau, a great burden lifted from her 
heart. 

''lam sorry, of course, '' replied he, ' ' but such trials 
are trifles in comparison with one I have seen to-day. 
I have just come from the bedside of a poor young 
widow whose hours are numbered, and she must leave 
a lovely little girl only two years old to the charity of the 
world. She is very poor, her husband’s illness and death 
using all her means ; and she has no relatives except 
two brothers, who went to America years ago and she 
does not know where they are.” 

"Who will take the little one ?” inquired Frau Erlau 
with tears in her eyes. 

" No one has offered ; she is a delicate child and it 
will be difficult to find a home for her. The mother 
is in much distress of mind, not knowing what is to 
become of her, and I really cannot help thinking of her 
pitiable condition.” 

' ' Bring the little one here, husband ; we can give 
her a home. ” 

"But she will be a great care to you, dear.” 

"I will do the best I can, and the poor mother’s 
mind will I hope be set at rest. Suppose we were in 
the same distress in regard to our children 1” 

"I thought of that when I compared her trouble 
with my trifling disappointment in the failure of Fritz. 
I was ashamed that I could feel depressed, especially as 
he had done the best he could. I am glad that you will 
comfort the poor creature by promising to give her dar- 
ling a home. We will go there this evening if it suits you. ” 


2 


i8 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


They went out to supper, and Reika, who had heard 
the whole story from Frieda, smiled to herself as she 
thought, ^^God has answered my prayer, that the Herr 
Doctor would have pity upon Fritz, by showing him 
that there are greater trials in the world than a failure in 
a school examination. 


NAMING THE BIRDS, 


^9 


CHAPTER II. 

NAMING THE BIRDS. 

The next evening the Erlaus had a small tea-party 
to celebrate the graduation of Eric, the promotion of 
Margaret and Meta, and the choosing of an occupation 
for Fritz ; for to his delight it had been agreed upon in 
family council that he should leave the Institute and 
become apprenticed to a locksmith, with the under- 
standing that he should give at least an hour of his 
leisure time each day to study. 

In this decision he saw the helping hand of Reika, 
and in his gratitude promised to make her a steak-broiler 
which could be turned without being taken from the 
fire, and she had such unlimited faith in his ability that 
she was quite as sure she would have it as though it 
were already hanging beside the shining cooking utensils 
in her neat bright kitchen. 

Prof Frohman and his widowed mother were among 
the guests, and were warmly welcomed by the Erlaus. 
He was the youngest professor in the Institute and 
his father had been a college friend of Dr. Erlau, who 
took a warm interest in the young man. 

Each of the children had the privilege of inviting a 
friend, and eighteen covers were laid upon the board for 
the substantial supper prepared by Frau Erlau and Reika. 

Margaret’s guest was Thea, the only daughter of 


' 20 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY, 


Councillor of Commerce Turo, a very wealthy and 
reserved man who never visited out of his own circle, 
but having a high regard for Dr. Erlau, who was his 
family physician, was willing that his daughter should 
make an exception in favor of the young Erlaus ; and 
Margaret being her especial friend it was she who bore 
the invitation to the tea-party. 

Margaret had a deep sense of appreciation for the 
grandeur which surrounded Thea ; the stately dwelling, 
in the midst of spacious grounds, the broad marble 
steps, the massive entrance, handsome furniture, costly 
paintings, silver-plate, and all the things which go toward 
the completing of a wealthy and luxurious home, suited 
her well. 

‘‘You must be very happy here, Thea,’' she re- 
marked that day when, seated in the boudoir of her 
friend, she cast a glance through the rich portieres into 
the picture gallery, conservatory and other apartments. 

“I would be very ungrateful not to be happy," 
replied the girl, “but I would give it all for a mother, 
as you have. My father gives me everything I wish, I 
do not know what it is to want for anything that he can 
provide with money, but — " 

“Oh don't indulge in these sentimental longings, 
my dear," interrupted Madame Villimain, the French 
governess, who had been a member of the Councillor's 
family for many years ; “you are a real German, always 
sighing for something you do not possess. Have I not 
been as a mother to you 

“Yes, dear Madame Villimain, you have been all 


NAMING THE BIRDS. 2 1 

that a lady not my mother could be ; but when I see 
dear Frau Doctorin Erlau, and the mothers of other 
girls of my acquaintance, I cannot help wishing mine 
had lived ; for at times I am lonely, even with your 
cheery society and that of my dear kind father/' 

Madame was always piqued at these allusions to 
loneliness ; she wished to be all in all to her young 
pupil, and having but little depth of feeling had no 
patience with it in others. She never had any contests 
with Thea, nor on the other hand failed in expressions 
of regard ; at the same time there was no genuine love 
for her, or for any one except herself. Margaret suited 
the volatile French woman much better than did the 
gentle Thea, who cared nothing for society and fashion ; 
with her madame felt at home. 

''You always wear such lovely dresses, Thea,” com- 
mented Margaret wistfully. 

"Yes/' said madame eagerly, "the Herr Councillor 
allows me to select her toilets in Paris. See some of the 
pretty things,'' and she opened wardrobes and took out 
dainty costumes that caused Margaret's cheeks to flush 
with delight. 

Thea looked on, surprised that her friend should 
take such interest in them ; custom having rendered them 
devoid of novelty to her. Margaret's simple dress would 
have pleased her quite as well as the costly fabrics which 
madame's refined taste had selected. 

"Oh, the beautiful, beautiful things !'' cried Marga- 
ret, clasping her hands in delight. "I never imagined 
such lovely silks and muslins and sashes. I have al- 


22 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


ways had to content myself with the satisfaction that I 
was the oldest daughter and did not have to wear the 
clothes that the others had outgrown. I would be 
very unhappy if I had to wear other people's cast-olf 
garments. ' ' 

Thea looked in surprise at the earnest face of her 
friend, but said nothing. 

‘‘You don't understand this, dear Thea," said she ; 
“you are the only daughter, and everything that is 
bought is for you alone ; there are four daughters at The 
Nest, and my mother has to contrive . and plan to make 
us all fare as near alike as possible, and keep us at the 
same time comfortably clothed. So the younger ones 
have to wear what the older ones have outgrown. You 
cannot understand what a privation it is to me not to 
have any of these pretty things." 

“No ; I cannot understand how any one could wish 
for them that has three dear sisters," replied Thea, 
tears of longing in her eyes. 

“She is always wishing for a sister," remarked Ma- 
dame Villimain, “and as her father grants every wish 
we will have to ask him to petition Dr. Erlau to allow 
Fräulein Margaret to live with us as your adopted 
sister. ' ' 

This was said apparently in jest, but she scanned the 
faces of the girls hoping it would take effect. 

Margaret’s countenance beamed and Thea clasped 
her hands in delight, then her face suddenly clouded. 

“ Her father and mother will never let her leave 
them,” said she. 


NAMING THE BIRDS. 


23 


'^They are, I am sure, much too sensible and un- 
selfish to stand in the way of such an advantage as it 
would be to her to share this beautiful home and all the 
luxuries you have. If your father is willing, certainly 
Dr. Erlau should noj object,"' replied madame. 

‘'But papa wins a daughter, Dr. Erlau loses one,’" 
objected Thea. 

Margaret's joy was somewhat dampened at these sug- 
gestions. She had often heard her father say that he 
looked upon her as the helper of her mother in the care 
of the household as soon as she had finished school ; at 
the same time she believed her mother to be too indul- 
gent to offer any objection when she saw that her daugh- 
ter’s happiness depended upon it. 

“Perhaps it would be well to say nothing at home 
upon the subject, Fraulein Margaret," suggested the 
governess, “at least until we have spoken to the Herr 
Councillor. If you wish, I will speak to him about it." 

The girls agreed to this, and it was decided that 
while Thea was at the Erlaus’ that evening Madame 
Villimain should broach the subject to the councillor, 
and if he agreed to it she would then try to get Dr. and 
Frau Erlau's consent. She was invited to the tea-party, 
but excused her presence there upon the ground of hav- 
ing exercises to correct; the real reason being that she 
looked upon the German festivals as tedious and dry, 
and declined them whenever she could. 

This did not occasion the slightest disappointment 
in the Erlau household when Margaret returned with 
the news; instead, Fritz threw up his cap in the 


24 the DÖCTÖE^S EÄMILY. 

kitchen and gave three cheers of relief over the joyful 
omission. 

But Thea was there, and while the company gath- 
ered about the great table Madame Villimain was reclin- 
ing in her comfortable chair reading, a French novel and 
there was no one to smile at the queer ways, as she 
considered them, of her German neighbors. 

When the meal was ended Dr. Erlau arose and made 
a little speech to his boys who were about to leave the 
home nest. 'Mt will be sad for your parents and sisters, 
my sons, to see your places at this table vacant,"' said 
he with tears in his kind eyes, ^ ' but we knew the time 
must come, so have prepared ourselves as well as possi- 
ble for the separation. You, Eric, have given us much 
pleasure in passing a brilliant examination, and we be- 
lieve you will make your way in the path of knowledge. 
In you, Fritz, we have no less confidence. We believe 
you will be a success in the path you have chosen of 
your own free will, and pray that you may both keep 
the fear of God before your eyes. While 1 have a father- 
ly interest in your success in life, my earnest prayer is 
that you may be honorable, upright Christian men, do- 
ing all the good you can in the world, always striving 
to walk in the straight path which leads to eternal life. 
And bear in mind that at any and all times your pa- 
rents" house is always ready to welcome you, their 
hearts always rejoiced at the knowledge of your well- 
doing. "’ 

All were impressed by these words, and the silence 
which followed was broken by the ringing of the en- 


NÄMiNC THE EIRDE ^5 

trance-bell, and a few minutes after Reika stepped in^ 
holding ,by the hand a beautiful little girl. 

the poor mother is gone,'" said the doctor. ‘^1 
am glad we made her last hours less sad by promis- 
ing to be parents to her child and he briefly related 
the circumstances to his guests. 

Frau Erlau had taken the little stranger in her arms, 
who hid her face upon the shoulder of her foster-mother 
as the others arose from the table and clustered about 
her, praising her beauty and trying to coax her to come 
to them. 

At length Reika appeared with a cup of bread and 
milk, as much interested in the little one as any of them; 
for Frau Erlau had bespoken her sympathy and assist- 
ance by telling her all about it as soon as she herself 
knew it, and Reika's heart went out in pity to the 
orphan. 

All were pleased except Else, and her indignation 
reached its climax when the little stranger, after eating 
the good bread and milk, fell asleep and was put in the 
cradle which Reika had brought from the attic for the 
purpose. 

‘'It is my cradle,” said she in tears; “the strange 
baby shall not sleep in it. ” 

“But you are a big girl now. Else ; you are not a 
baby,” laughed Eric. 

“I am mamma’s baby; she doesn't love me any 
more, she loves the strange baby.” 

“Poor child!” said Prof. Frohman. “No wonder 
she feels aggrieved. She has been taken too suddenly 


26 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


from her position as pet of The Nest ; she is no longer 
the baby. 

‘‘But she is mamma's little woman," said the Frau 
Doctorin, taking her in her arms and kissing the tear- 
dimmed eyes; ''mamma's humming-bird, that flutters 
here and there giving pleasure to all." 

"Oh," cried Fritz, "this is 'The Nest,' why not 
give names to all the birds 

"Papa is the noble eagle who provides for us all," 
said Frieda. 

"Meta is the white owl of Minerva," said Eric, 
glancing at her to see how she relished the name. 

"Fritz is the mason-swallow," said Meta, "who will 
build himself a fine nest by the work of his hands.” 

"Very good!" commented Fritz. "What is Mar- 
garet T' 

"A pea-fowl," laughed Eric, whereupon all laughed,, 
and Margaret was not at all displeased, for it was a bird 
she admired greatly. 

"What are you, Eric? something very smart, of 
course," questioned she. 

"I am a woodpecker, that brings concealed prob- 
lems from the depths. " 

"What is our Frieda?" inquired Dr. Erlau, joining 
in the game. 

"She is a nightingale, whose sweet songs cheer us 
all," replied Fritz. 

"And Emmi; what name will we give her?" asked 
Margaret. 

"The little gray wren, that hops about seeing that 


NAMING THE BIRDS. 2^ 

the house is in order and everybody comfortable/' said 
the mother kindly. 

“We should give Erna a name," said Margaret, 
pointing to the cradle. 

“She is the robin-redbreast, who comes gladly 
among people who welcome her," said Freida. 

“All named but mamma and Reika," said Emmi. 

“Reika is a magpie, that makes all the other birds 
run when she scolds and wrangles," laughed Eric. 

“And me ; am I to go nameless said the mother 
archly. 

“No bird's name is good enough for your mother," 
said Dr. Erlau. “We will call her the sun, which gives 
light and joy to The Nest. " 

At length the pleasant evening came to an end, and 
Thea told her father of the charming novelty she had 
enjoyed ; and finding that Madame Villimain had spoken 
of the subject of such interest to her she urged that he 
ask Dr. Erlau to spare Margaret to them. 

“ I am sure they will not be willing to let her come, 
so do not expect it," replied her father ; “but if Madame 
Villimain or . you choose to ask I will be very glad to 
welcome Fraulein Margaret into our family." 

The next day the governess paid a visit to The Nest 
and made urgent request for Margaret of the parents, 
who were so taken by surprise they could scarcely reply 
for a time. 

While they were hesitating for an answer that would 
not hurt the feelings of the councillor or Thea, Madame 
Villimain was volubly recounting all the advantages it 


28 


THE DOCTORS S EAMILV. 


would bring to Margaret to share in the accomplish- 
ments, travelling and other educational opportunities 
which Thea enjoyed. 

Very much gratified were Dr. Erlau and his wife at 
the kindness which prompted the request, and very sorry 
to disappoint Thea, but they could not give their con- 
sent to one of their children leaving their home to be- 
come a member of another family. 

Madame Villimain looked upon this decision in the 
light of idiotic blindness to -the best interests of Mar- 
garet, and her disappointment was so great that she 
could scarcely refrain from telling them so. The coun- 
cillor, though scarcely expecting success, was hurt by 
the refusal, and was very cool in his manner when he 
next met Dr. Erlau, and Thea could scarcely be com- 
forted ; she had set her heart upon having a foster-sister ; 
and Margaret was the object of her choice. 

Margaret was not so heartless as to be unconscious 
of the love evinced by their decision, while Dr. and Frau 
Erlau were wounded that she was so willing to leave The 
Nest. 


ERIC AND FRITZ VISIT THEIR HOME. 29 


CHAPTER in. 

ERIC AND FRITZ VISIT THEIR HOME. 

'n HAVE been thinking, Fritz, ’' said Dr. Erl an the 
next morning after the party, ^^that it would be a better 
plan for you to go to a business school, where the learn- 
ing of a trade goes hand in hand with study of other 
branches of knowledge ; do n't you think so V 

^^Oh no; dear father, let me be entirely free in this 
matter," replied Fritz persuasively. am sure you 

will have no need to be discouraged. I will not neglect 
my brains while I am working with my hands. " 

The father's eyes brightened when he looked at the 
earnest face of his son, and he resolved to let him pur- 
sue the path he had marked out for himself. 

The medical university in which Eric was to become 
a student was in Berlin, and it was decided that Fritz 
should accompany him and enter the employ of a 
locksmith whose character and business standing were 
known to Dr. Erlau. 

The time soon came for them to take their first 
departure from The Nest, and the affectionate mother 
and sisters shed tears ; and old Reika in the kitchen 
avowed that the place was not the same since Fritz 
made up his mind to go, and she did not know how 
they could exist without him. • 

Tears were in the eyes of Fritz when he bade them 


30 


THE DOCTOR'S FA3IILY. 


good-by, but he hurried away at Eric's impatient request 
not to keep him waiting, and the railway train took 
them in a short time to their destination. 

Time passed on, and the letters of Fritz to the home 
circle were filled with delight with his occupation. 
Every cloud had disappeared from his horizon since he 
had been allowed to change the school desk for a work 
bench, and, strange to say, since he had deserted the 
direct path to knowledge the learning he had obtained 
was the more highly appreciated, and the hour he had 
promised to give to study was not only faithfully given 
but the time was often extended. 

Thrown upon his own responsibility Fritz saw the 
value of an education, and was grateful to his father for 
having kept him at the study of Latin, for he found it of 
so much use in the study of other languages. 

All this was a great pleasure to the family, and Dr. 
Erlau was more than ever convinced that he had done 
right in letting Fritz choose his own way in life when 
he received a letter from his employer speaking in warm 
terms of the boy. The letter spoke of his skill and in- 
dustry, and said that the older employes of the factory 
were surprised at his advancement, and the younger 
ones looked upon him as an example. 

Eric in the meantime was making his way. His 
industry and marked ability very soon attracted the 
attention of the professors, and among the students he 
was known as an adept at fencing, wrestling, card-play- 
ing, and kindred amüsements. 

He could be very agreeable in manner when he con- 


ERIC AND FRITZ VISIT THEIR HOME. 3 1 

sidered it worth while to exert himself, and being hand- 
some, and known to be of excellent family, was a 
welcome guest in the best society in Berlin. His even- 
ings were spent in a round of festivities in homes where 
he felt much more at ease than in the quiet simplicity 
of his father's house and the society of the pious yet 
cheerful and genial parents. He was so in demand on 
festal occasions that he seldom had time to write to the 
home people, who looked anxiously for letters from him, 
and it was to be noted that his eyes had not the clear 
expression that once distinguished them, nor did his 
cheeks have the look of robust health they once wore. 
He managed to keep well up in his studies, but in a way 
ruinous to his health ; for after remaining until midnight 
in gay assemblies the rising sun often found him poring 
over his books. His fellow-students wondered at the 
strength which could withstand such a drain upon it, 
and gave many a warning word which was unheeded ; 
his mind being set upon being a great and celebrated 
physician to whom the ailing would come from all coun- 
tries. He would be a master among masters, to whom 
riches would flow, and life be one grand success. 

The brothers had not paid a visit home since their 
arrival at Berlin, but Christmas was near at hand, and 
Fritz was looking eagerly forward to seeing the dear 
ones. There had been two short holidays in the Univer- 
sity, in which Eric could have gone to Friehausen, but 
he wrote to his father asking permission to remain in- 
Berlin, saying that he had received invitations elsewhere 
that he did not wish to decline. 


32 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY, 


feel anxious about Eric/' remarked Frau Erlau 
a week before Christmas. ' ' I am afraid he will receive 
invitations which he may think he ought to accept, and 
will stay in Berlin during the holidays." 

' ^ Oh, mother, " replied Dr. Erlau, ^ ‘ certainly he 
would not treat us in that way ; he will, I think, be 
anxious to see his home after such a long absence." 

hope so, but it has been a long time since we 
heard from him, and when he wrote he said nothing of 
the holidays." 

'‘A month is not long, mother, for one whose time 
is so filled," said Dr. Erlau consolingly; ‘‘but I too 
have felt somewhat anxious about Eric, and have re- 
solved that if he writes and makes any excuse for not 
coming home I will go to Berlin and bring him home 
with me." 

“I hope there will be no necessity for this; I do 
hope he will think enough of us to come without that," 
replied Frau Erlau, yet her face brightened at the 
thought of seeing him under any circumstances. 

The day before Christmas, Else and the little foster- 
daughter Erna stood on chairs by the sitting-room win- 
dows and clapped their hands with delight at the snow, 
which was coming down in large feathery flakes, giving 
promise of a very short snow-storm. 

The whole family were looking forward with great 
pleasure to this Christmas, for to the usual anticipation 
of the pleasures of the season was added that of having 
Eric and Fritz come home with much to tell them 
of their life in the capital city. 


ERIC AND FRITZ VISIT THEIR HOME. 


33 


Meta and Emmi were invited to a children's party 
which was to come off during the holidays, and were 
to invite some young friends in return, and Margaret 
was looking forward with keen delight to an elegant 
party at the residence of Councillor Turo, it being the 
first which her parents had given consent for her to 
attend. 

In the kitchen the steam of preparation was at its 
height. Meta and Emmi were helping Reika make in- 
numerable small cakes, and Margaret at another table 
was helping her mother make sponge cakes and Stollen. 

After a time the snow ceased falling and the little 
ones looked about for other amusements, the sound of 
cheery voices attracting them to the kitchen. 

Let us come out, Meta," said Else, peeping through 
the slightly opened door ; ^Sve want to help make little 
cakes.” 

“No, no," said Reika sharply. “I want no children 
bothering out here ; we are entirely too busy." 

“Why can't we come, Emmi.?^" whispered Else ; 
“we want to help." 

“But there isn't room," replied Emmi. “But do 
you and Erna hold your aprons and I will give you 
some of the little cakes." 

“Come and sit in your chairs by the piano and I 
will sing for you while you eat your cakes," said Frieda, 
coming to the door. 

Though entirely blind the little girl was a good 
performer and had a sweet plaintive voice, and the 
children forgot their disappointment in listening. 

3 


34 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


*^Dear Frieda is always willing to amuse the little 
ones/' remarked Frau Erlau as the sweet sounds reached 
them. How it rests one to hear her play and sing." 

Margaret made no reply ; her thoughts were centered 
upon the costume she was to wear at the coming-out 
party of Thea Turo. 

'"Use more citron and raisins, Margaret," continued 
her mother. ‘‘We are making Eric’s favorite cake and 
must have it good, for it has been a long time since 
he was at home." 

“It is his own fault," muttered Reika in a tone too 
low for the mother to hear. 

“I am glad I am not a boy away at school," re- 
marked Emmi. “I think it is so much pleasanter to 
be at home and making good things for those we are 
expecting ; do n’t you think so, Margaret ?" 

“I would rather order it done than to tax myself 
with such drudgery as cooking for other people to eat, 
except on special occasions like the present." 

“But when they are our loved ones," interposed 
Frau Erlau, “and we know we make them happy by 
thus catering to their tastes, we women would not 
exchange our lot for any other. Some time, my Mar- 
garet, you will realize that I am right." 

Margaret was silent but not convinced. Her ideal 
of a woman’s sphere was a realm where she would reign 
supreme, surrounded by those who would anticipate 
every wish, and she would have no care save to be 
beautiful and attractive to all. 

At that moment they heard a buoyant voice, and 


ERIC AND FRITZ VISIT THEIR HOME, 35 

the sound of springing up the steps two at a time ; 
the door flew open and Fritz was in their midst. 

There was an avalanche of words, kisses and re- 
joicing over his improved appearance, and satisfaction 
at his coming earlier in the day than they had hoped. 
Amid the general hand-shaking Reika was not forgot- 
ten and her plain old face beamed with joy at seeing 
him, for of all the family who were dear to her he was 
the dearest. 

‘‘But where is Eric.^^” inquired the mother when 
the hubbub had subsided somewhat. 

“He is coming in a later train,'' laughed Fritz; 
“my third class in school and my locksmith trade 
are too much for him ; they embarrass him. " 

He said this so cheerily that none could tell whether 
there were latent any feeling of wounded pride, so no 
comment was made ; except that Reika from her place' 
by the oven gave a sniff of disdain at the remembrance 
of the absent Eric. 

After chatting a moment longer Fritz flew from 
room to room to see what changes had taken place 
during his absence, and found a creaking door, the 
hinges of which he oiled, found a screw loose in a lock, 
which was quickly tightened, and the knobs of a bureau 
hanging loosely because of the burrs slipping from their 
places, all of which he adjusted while chatting with 
his little sisters who were trotting after him. 

“Margaret is a beautiful girl," he whispered to his 
mother when upon returning he met her in the hall ; 
“it is no wonder that Frohman thinks everything of her." 


36 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


Frau Erlau smiled ; it was evident that the thought 
was agreeable to her. 

Don’t let Margaret suspect that, nor let her think 
she has beauty to be admired ; we must try to quell her 
vanity instead of encouraging it,” said she. 

Trust me, mother; your apprentice boy will be 
as wise as a serpent. Hurrah, there is father !” 

Fritz rushed out and down the steps, threw his arms 
around his father, and then clasping his hand kept step 
with him into the house. 

‘'You young Hercules!” said Dr. Erlau, looking 
upon him with fatherly pride. “I wish I could see 
some of my patients looking like you. Your work- 
man’s blouse is really becoming to you. ” 

“But I must lay it aside and don a coat before Eric 
comes,” laughed Fritz ; “he would be completely upset 
to have to associate with such a garment.” 

“Eric was always very elegant,” remarked Margaret. 

“Yes, he is in his element in courtly circles and 
does credit to them,” assented Fritz. “I hear that he 
is extremely popular in Berlin.” 

A shadow passed over the face of Dr. Erlau, but he 
made no remark. 

“I suppose you see him occasionally,” questioned 
his mother ; “he comes to see you ?” 

“ No ; he has not been at my workshop or boarding- 
place yet, and I do n’t think he cares to have me come 
to the University, or to his club or mess-room, so I 
never went but once.” 

In the afternoon Eric came in a carriage from the 


ERIC AND FRITZ VISIT THEIR HOME, 37. 

Station, and all were rejoiced to see him ; but there was 
not the enthusiasm which welcomed Fritz ; they knew 
it would not be agreeable, so all was decorous and in 
order. The cake-making was finished and mother and 
daughters were dressed for the evening, the kitchen was 
abandoned for the parlor, and as Eric had taken supper 
in Berlin there was no especial opportunity to see Reika, 
and he made none for the purpose of seeing his old and 
faithful friend and childhood's care-taker. 

It was almost a shock to the affectionate parents to 
see the change in Eric since he left home, and they 
could not but remark upon his paleness and his sunken 
eyes, which he explained as the result of a temporary 
illness. 

The little sisters looked in awe upon him, and were 
glad to turn to Fritz, who shared all their joys and 
griefs. 

Margaret, Meta and Emmi listened with great delight 
to the descriptions of city life and its amusements with 
which he condescended to entertain them, and Marga- 
ret's heart beat high with the hope that she too could 
one day enter into these pleasures. 

Dr. Erlau had looked forward with longing for this 
visit from his son. Since Eric had chosen the medical 
profession he pictured the conversations they would have 
upon the subject, the discussions in regard to different 
treatments of disease, the many hints and helps they 
could bestow upon each other. From the stores of his 
rich experience he intended to draw for the benefit of 
one just setting out in the way which had many times 


38 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


proved toilsome to him, for to smooth the path for Eric 
was the desire of his heart. 

But the young man held himself aloof from any ad- 
vice his father could give him, and took but little inter- 
est in discussing the subject of medicine in any form. 

‘‘The new discoveries have entirely superseded the 
old ideas, he remarked coldly. “You would be sur- 
prised, father, to know the changes since you were a stu- 
dent.^' 

“But your father has kept up to the times by read- 
ing,'' said his mother quickly; “and experience counts 
for much, as one can judge by his success in his practice. " 

Eric made no comment ; he acted as if the subject 
were a bore. 

That evening Dr. Erlau asked him to accompany 
him to visit one of his patients, and the result proved the 
wide gulf which lay between them, and the experiment 
was not repeated. Eric took no interest in the case 
whatever ; neither did he take any interest in his home — 
avoided confidential and friendly conversation with his 
parents, and the amusements and interests which made 
the daily life of his sisters were ignored by him. 

It being Christmas eve the doctor had hoped there 
would be no call to visit a sick-bed ; and he was priv- 
ileged to have his wish to remain with his family and be 
with Eric and Fritz after their long absence. So the 
whole family were together in the parlor. 

The little ones were chatting gleefully over the 
pleasures of the happy Christmas time and looking for- 
ward to the sparkling beauty of the Christmas-tree, with 


ERIC AND FRITZ VISIT THEIR HOME. 39 

its many tapers, and the pretty gifts hanging from its 
green boughs for each and every member of the family. 
That it was now behind locked doors added to the an- 
ticipation of pleasure, lending, as it were, an element of 
mystery. 

The parents sat upon the sofa. Dr. Erlau's arm 
around his wife and her hand in his. He knew that her 
heart was as heavy as his own because of the change in 
Eric, but they strove to appear cheerful, and succeeded. 

At the side of his mother sat Fritz, and Frieda was 
in her usual place at her father’s side. The older ones 
were at the front windows, where Margaret was discuss- 
ing her costume for the party at Councillor Turo’s, and 
Eric was looking from the window and idly drumming 
upon the sill. 

Can’t we have a light ?” said he after a time, turning 
away. cannot abide a dark room.” 

'‘Your father loves to talk with us in the twilight,” 
replied his mother, " but if it is agreeable to him we will 
have lights.” 

"Certainly,” said Dr. Erlau, "let Eric have his 
wish,” and the lights were brought. 

Thea Turo was two years younger than Margaret, 
was in fact but fourteen years of age, yet the evening 
of her party was to witness her entrance into society 
and her installation as mistress of her father’s house. 
This was not the first invitation that Margaret had 
received but her parents considered her too young to 
participate in such festivities, and she had shed many 
tears in secret at having to decline the invitations. 


40 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


“Why have you kept me back two years when 
the councillor considers Thea old enough to enter so- 
ciety 

“Thea is of very dilferent temperament from you, 
my darling,'' Frau Erlau replied ; “she is so sedate and 
mature that she appears years older than she really is. 
Her father is so anxious to have some one as head of his 
house, and hostess to his guests, that he could scarcely 
wait until this time to introduce her into society. There 
is no such necessity in your case ; but our main reason is 
your own disposition. You anticipate too much from 
the pleasures of society, and would be carried away from 
your studies and other duties of life unless you have 
age on your side to temper your enthusiasm. 

“We consider you yet too young, you are but six- 
teen, but as Thea is your dearest friend, and the coun- 
cillor has urged it so much, we have given consent, and 
hope that your mind will not be absorbed afterward in 
thoughts of gayety. " 

“But, mother, do you and father consider me so 
very weak and frivolous ?" 

“No more so perhaps than many other girls of your 
age, but you set too much stress upon the pleasures of 
society, and the knowledge of its powerlessness to give 
real happiness might come too late to you. We wish 
you to be better prepared to judge what is true and 
what is false." 

Margaret was not at all satisfied with this view of the 
case. She was impatient of control, and longed to rush 
into the round of balls, regattas, skating parties, sleigh- 


ERIC AND FRITZ VISIT THEIR HOME. 41 

ing parties, and all else that went towards the festivities 
of the day. 

Christmas day passed, and was from morning until 
night a festal day, but Margaret s thoughts were upon 
Thea's party of the next evening. 

^‘It is too bad,^' remarked Eric the next morning, 
"'that in this out-of-the-way place one cannot get a 
neck-tie that is anywhere near the fashion. I forgot 
mine, and have nothing to wear this evening to the Tu- 
ro party ; so must go to the station and telegraph to 
Berlin for one.'’ 

''You wish to astonish the natives with the latest 
style," remarked his father. 

"There is no other way to prove that I know what 
is fashionable except by my dress," replied Eric rather 
stiffly. 

"lam afraid such uncultivated people as we appear 
to be will not appreciate your style." 

"You will find Thea very little changed," said Frau 
Erlau quickly, in order to give the conversation a differ- 
ent turn. 

"She was always a good girl," said Fritz. " I shall 
be glad to see her again. " 

"Are you going.?" drawled Eric in surprise. 

His tone was so disdainful that his father was on the 
point of resenting the insult, but Fritz spoke in time to 
prevent it. 

"Certainly, I am going. If I am not too much of a 
bear to receive an invitation I am not too much of one 
to accept it. " 


42 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


‘*So you were invited V drawled Eric insolently. 

He is quite as worthy of an invitation as yourself/' 
said his father sternly. 

Wouldn't it be charming to have a party here/’ 
said Meta, quickly. 

wish we could," replied Margaret : ‘‘but I sup- 
pose that is impossible." 

“Wait until Eric is a celebrated doctor," said Emmi ; 
“then we will have parties." 

“I hope you will not count upon me," said Eric. 
“I don’t know where I will be by that time." 

“Why, are not you coming to Friehausen to practise 
with papa?" cried Meta. 

“ Father does not need my help ; the world is wide, 
I must go my own way." 

There was a pause of dismay ; from oldest to young- 
est all knew that the father had counted upon this when 
his son had finished his medical course. The silence 
was growing painful, but Fritz with his usual cheery cus- 
tom came to the rescue. 


MARGARETES FIRST PARTY, 


43 


CHAPTER IV. 

MARGARETS FIRST PARTY, 

The next evening Margaret, robed in the simple yet 
charmingly becoming white gown which her mother con- 
sidered suitable for her age and position, stood in the 
full blaze of the many tapers upon the Christmas-tree. 
She was ready for the party at the councillor's, as were 
her mother and brothers, and was only waiting the com- 
ing of Dr. Erlau, who had been detained at a sick-bed. 

The glances of admiration were not lost upon Mar- 
agaret ; she knew she was beautiful and that the little 
ones regarded her as a superior being, and she could not 
refrain from casting glances upon her reflection in the 
mirror over the mantel, blushing with gratified pride. 

‘‘Oh," thought she, “isn't it shameful that I have 
no fan to match this lovely costume ! It is always the 
same old bother; no money to make complete what 
one undertakes. It is too hard, that people not half so 
deserving have wealth at command and we are stinted." 

Fritz had expressed his hearty approval of her ap- 
pearance, then disappeared from the room ; and Eric, 
whose criticism she had waited for, not sure that it 
would be favorable, adjusted a fold here and there and 
made no objection to the costume or to her appearance 
in any way, and this being more than she expected of 
him gave an added zest to her anticipated pleasure. 


44 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 


At that moment Fritz returned and in a bashful 
way presented her with a beautifully dainty fan, rose pink 
in color and finished with swan’s-down, and Margaret’s 
happiness was complete. 

Eric was somewhat embarrassed at her evident de- 
light and gratitude, yet did not choose to call to mind 
that even a trifle saved from his allowance would provide 
many simple pleasures for his sisters. Had the thought 
come to his mind he would have cast it aside as wholly 
impossible, his allowance not being what he considered 
at all adequate to his wants or his deserts. 

‘^What time will the carriage be at the door.?” said 
he, anxious to attract attention from Fritz and his gift. 

‘‘Carriage!” laughed Fritz, “what in the w'orld 
made you think of a carriage for that short distance I” 

“ It would be an unheard of thing to walk to a party 
at an elegant residence like that of Councillor Turo,” 
replied Eric angrily. 

“Not here in Friehausen,” interposed his mother 
soothingly. “A carriage would cost a greater sum than 
your father would care to pay.” 

“Had I known this I would have provided a suit- 
able conveyance,” returned Eric haughtily. 

“If you are in a position to incur the expense it 
would be very agreeable to your sister to go in a car- 
riage,” said Frau Erlau in the constrained tone her 
children understood so well; “but as your father has 
the pecuniary care of the whole family on his hands it 
is quite as well for us to make it as light as possible.” 

Eric was sullenly silent, and upon Margaret’s fair 


MARGARETS FIRST PARTY, 45 

face rested a cloud ; she was again wishing for money, 
and contrasted in her mind the difference between 
walking to a party and going in a handsome carriage 
drawn by spirited horses, and her pleasure was damp- 
ened. 

Fritz did all he could to restore good-humor, jesting 
with his sisters as to how he would manage to hide his 
toil-blackened hands in the folds of his white handker- 
chief. 

They had grown cheerful again by the time the 
father appeared, and as soon as he made his toilet he 
and Frau Erlau set out, accompanied by Fritz ; Eric 
and Margaret following. 

feel like a tramp,'’ said Eric as they passed up 
the broad marble steps of the beautiful dwelling; ^'the 
idea of walking to meet the elegant circle in which we 
will mingle this evening !" 

Margaret pressed his arm in sympathy, and having 
entered, and passed under the brilliant chandelier in the 
spacious hall, they were conducted by attendants to the 
dressing-rooms above. 

Margaret felt almost bewildered by the brilliance of 
the parlors when she descended and went forward to 
greet the young hostess, but Eric was perfectly at home 
in the gay scene. It was not enchanted ground to him, 
but a reality which suited his pleasure-loving nature, 
although the novelty had worn off. 

Thea welcomed Eric, and threw her arms about 
Margaret, kissing her heartily, at which proceeding Ma- 
dame Villimain shook her head in disapproval, as being 


46 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY, 


against all rules of etiquette. However Thea had to 
turn the next moment to receive new guests and the 
little episode was not remembered. 

The councillor stood by the door and received each 
guest with cordiality, often looking toward his daughter 
with tenderness and pride that she did the honors of his 
house with so much grace and composure — self-posses- 
sion which many older persons might have envied. 

Margaret in the meantime stood beside her mother 
watching the gay scene, wishing she were acquainted 
with the handsomely attired ladies and the richly uni- 
formed young officers who graced the rooms, when she 
caught sight of a girl friend, who came immediately to 
her and grasped her hand cordially. 

^^You can’t count upon Thea this evening, she has 
her hands full,” said she a little spitefully. ‘‘It is 
laughable to see a mere child like her filling the place 
of hostess to a large company like this.” 

“She is doing beautifully,” said Margaret sincerely. 

“Yes, but older persons would understand it better. 
See how childish she appears !” 

“But, Gertrude — ” 

“Oh, yes, I know that you belong to that clique, 
and are one of her followers ; rich people always have 
a court.” 

Deeply offended at this freedom of speech Margaret 
turned her back upon her, and returned to her mother. 
She felt strange and out of place, something she had not 
anticipated at this, her first party ; but at that moment 
Thea appeared. 


MARGARET S FIRST PARTY. 


47 


^‘Dear Margaret/' said she, ‘‘for the moment I am 
free to leave my place, and hurried to find you. Come 
and stand by me and give me courage. " 

“Give you courage !" exclaimed Margaret in surprise. 
“You certainly don’t need any help from me, or from 
any one." 

“Yes, feel how my heart beats; I am so anxious to 
have papa satisfied with me. " 

“But you surely are proud to be the one of first im- 
portance this evening, and among this brilliant com- 
pany !" 

“No," said Thea earnestly, “I would rather sit in 
some quiet corner with you and be a looker-on ; but 
there come more guests, I have stayed too long," and 
she flitted back to her place. 

“No one is going to ask me to promenade," thought 
Margaret, as she saw gentlemen bowing to ladies and 
asking the honor of their company for a walk through 
the beautiful conservatory brilliant with colored lights. 

“Fraulein Erlau, can I have the pleasure of intro- 
ducing to you my young friend Lieut, von Norden .?" 
asked her host, and to Margaret's delight the young 
officer whom she had considered the handsomest man 
in the room was presented, and immediately asked to 
be her escort, and at that moment Prof. Frohman, who 
had just arrived, hastened to her side. 

“Fraulein Margaret, " said he gently, “can I have 
the honor of your company for the first promenade ?" 

To the young girl's secret satisfaction, she could 
answer that she was already promised, and with a look 


48 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


of disappointment upon his face Prof. Frohman bowed 
and left them. 

‘'lam real glad of it/’ thought Margaret gleefully ; 
“if he had walked with me he would have been in the 
way all evening, and I would have had no chance to 
speak to any one else. ” 

Eric in the meantime had secured the company of 
Thea for the first promenade, and they led the way to 
the conservatory, the others following. 

“Eric is highly honored,” said Dr. Erlau to his 
wife, in a gratified tone. “I don’t know how he man- 
aged to secure her, when there are so many handsome 
and distinguished officers present. ” 

“Your eldest son Eric is certainly a very fine look' 
ing young man, ” said the councillor, coming to them at 
that moment and preventing Frau Erlau’s reply. “I 
have great admiration for him, yet Fritz pleases me very 
much ; he is really a genius. Yesterday, while the young 
people were here, I mentioned that my type-writer was 
out of repair. Fritz asked permission to examine it, 
and in a short time had it in perfect order. ” 

“Yes, he is skillful in that kind of work,” said the 
father, pleased with the praise. 

“Not only that, he seizes opportunities,” continued 
the councillor ; “he is alert, active, energetic; I believe 
I am a true prophet when I say that Fritz will make his 
mark in the world.” 

“Who was the young officer whom you introduced 
to Margaret inquired Frau Erlau. 

“Lieut, von Norden, a college friend of Curt, my 





»IC 




:<«S: 


A'^'-EW 













) 

3 

: 

: 


MARGARETS FIRST PARTY. 4g 

eldest son. He has been visiting here for several days. 
He is a true son of Mars.'' 

‘‘ He is very distinguished in appearance," remarked 
Dr. Erlau. 

Yes, he is one of the most popular young officers 
in Berlin, owing, I suppose, to his being so lavish with 
his money. His father died a few years ago and left him 
considerable property, and he is making away with it as 
fast as possible. On that account he is not the compan- 
ion I would choose for my son, but I hope that Curt is 
too sensible to be led into his extravagant ways. Be- 
sides, my son will soon leave the military service, and 
take possession of my property in the country. My 
second son is much better fitted for military life." 

‘‘How very lovely Thea is looking this evening," re- 
marked Frau Erlau. 

“Yes ; she is very small and childish looking, but 
womanly in her ways. " 

“ She is certainly fairy-like," continued Frau Erlau, 
“but her form is one of perfect symmetry ; and her man- 
ner is so sweet and serene and composed for one so 
young. " 

“ She is a good child ; the joy of my old age," replied 
the councillor with warmth. 

In the meantime the promenade was over, and the 
young people were seeking other amusements, a game of 
tennis being the first, in which Lieut, von Norden se- 
cured Margaret and Prof Frohman was forced to content 
himself with another, in whom he had no interest. 

Margaret’s sanguine dreams of the pleasures of society 
4 


50 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


were more than realized as the evening continued with its 
varied amusements, the sweet music of a stringed band 
not being the least enjoyable feature. The handsome 
lieutenant was still her escort, and told her of the gay- 
eties of Berlin, to which she listened with sparkling eyes. 

‘‘It must be delightful to be really in society,'' said 
she earnestly. “ I know as yet nothing of it. I am only 
a school-girl. " 

“Is it possible!'’ ejaculated he with complimentary 
surprise. “You really appear like one well accustomed 
to mingling in crowds. '’ 

“No, this is my first party ; my parents do not ap- 
prove of girls going into society very early. " 

“ Then I have had the honor and pleasure of helping 
entertain you upon your very first entrance into the 
charmed circle." 

She nodded and smiled. 

“And you find society pleasant?" 

‘ ‘ I never imagined it so delightful ; I cannot express 
my pleasure in it. " 

“I believe all young ladies will agree with you in 
that opinion." 

“ But don't gentlemen enjoy society quite as much 
as ladies ?" 

“Sometimes; but, gracious Fraulein, they often 
have annoyances which rob them of all enjoyment. For 
instance, they frequently have to pay attention to people 
they would avoid if they could : homely girls, elderly 
ones, wall-flowers, and other neglected ones who have 
been invited because for some reason or other they could 


MARGARET'S FIRST PAR TV. 5 i 

not be left out of the list ! So you see a gentleman's 
pleasure is spoiled sometimes for a whole evening." 

‘‘But my mother would say that he is conferring a 
favor upon the neglected ones spoken of/' remarked 
Margaret reflectively. 

“All very nice and unselfish !" replied the lieutenant 
lightly ; “but while he is thus goody-goody some other 
gentleman is having the opportunity to wait upon the 
young lady to whom he would have acted as escort had 
not the wall-flower, at the request of the hostess, been 
the recipient of his attention. ' ' 

All this was new to Margaret ; she revolved it in her 
mind. 

“Then," continued the lieutenant, “when we have 
an oasis in the desert, such as your company is to me 
this evening, we appreciate it more than I can tell." 

“Oh, you are surely flattering me." 

“No; truly not. I don't know when I have had 
such an enjoyable evening. It will always live in my 
memory ; but you, gracious Fräulein, will see many 
others, and by the time the season is over will forget 
that such a person as I ever existed. ' ’ 

“You are mistaken," replied Margaret quickly; 
“we live very quietly; are not at all in society. I will 
have no opportunity to see many people." 

“Is not this your debut in society.?" 

“No; I will not go to any parties this winter. 
Papa and mamma gave permission this time because 
Thea is a particular friend, and Councillor Turo was so 
anxious to have me come to please her." 


52 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


“Can I not claim you as partner in the next game?” 

Margaret gave assent, while a blush of pleasure 
mantled her fair face, not unnoted by Herr von Norden, 
who immediately asked her company for the succeed- 
ing game, which was also granted. 

She felt a thrill of satisfaction to be thus promised 
when Eric brought a friend of his who asked the pleas- 
ure of her company for the next game. 

“Oh, mother; I never was so happy in my life,” 
said she, when she found herself a moment alone with 
Frau Erlau. “I never imagined that parties were so 
delightful. Oh, if every evening could be passed this 
way how happy I would be !” 

The mother smiled somewhat sadly as she said, while 
adjusting a fold of the pretty muslin dress, “Oh, my 
darling, if you could be in a gay scene like this every 
evening you would soon grow weary of it ; it is only the 
novelty that makes it so enchanting. ' ' 

Margaret glided away to Thea, who was standing by 
the fountain in the great conservatory, which was bril- 
liantly lighted by Chinese lanterns, and where they were 
joined by Prof. Frohman. 

“You have evidently forgotten, Fräulein Margaret, 
that you always promised that I should be your partner 
at your first party,” said he a little sadly. “My absence 
from home prevented me from knowing of this enter- 
tainment until too late to call and ask the pleasure of 
your company. ' ’ 

“Yes,” laughed Margaret ; “but you should excuse 
my forgetting everything in my surprise that papa and 


MARGARET S FIRST PARTY. 53 

mamma allowed me to come. I will do better next 
time.'' 

The players in the next game were falling into line, 
and Lieut, von Norden came for his partner, much to 
the relief of Margaret, who felt that she had slighted the 
dear friend of her family for a comparative stranger. 

What ails Frohman this evening.?" inquired Fritz 
when he happened to be near her in the game. '‘He 
seems to avoid you in a way that I don't consider quite 
courteous. ' ' 

"Oh, you are mistaken," said Margaret quickly; 
"he has not failed in courtesy to me." 

"He does not seem in very good spirits, at all 
events," said Fritz, and Margaret was glad that it was 
not Eric who had noticed it. 

Frau Erlau, too, was surprised that Prof. Frohman 
took so little part in the amusements of the evening, and 
wondered that Margaret evinced no disappointment. 

Supper was announced, and Lieut, von Norden 
escorted Margaret to the room, waited attentively upon 
her, and entertained her with accounts of Berlin life. 

"My leave of absence was for ten days," he re- 
marked, "and I spent part of it upon the estate of an 
aunt ; had I known the attraction this place would have 
for me I should have accepted Turo's invitation for the 
whole time of my furlough, instead of a few days. ' ' 

" Then you like this neighborhood ?" said Margaret 
naively. 

"For the past few hours I have known what it is to 
live. To-morrow we are to have a skating party, and I 


54 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY, 


hope for your company as my partner, gracious Fräu- 
lein.’^ 

Margaret’s face flushed with joy at the charming 
prospect ; never in her life had so much pleasure been 
crowded into one evening. She could only hope that 
her parents would give consent, and von Norden volun- 
teered to ask it. 

At length the time came for separating, and the 
careful mother wrapped the cloak about her daughter 
and they went home. 

Eric and Fritz indulged in merry remarks at the 
devotion of the handsome lieutenant, but Margaret was 
not the least disturbed ; she appeared like one in a 
dream. 

The mother accompanied her to her room and 
helped her lay aside her pretty costume, then she kissed 
the flushed cheek, while her kind eyes grew dim with 
tears. 

‘‘God be with you, my sweet child,” said she ten- 
derly, and was about to leave the room when Margaret 
threw her arms about her, and wept from nervous weari- 
ness and excitement. 

She soon recovered her composure, and then Frau 
Erlau went to her room, but not to sleep. She lay there 
thinking over the events of the evening, regretting that 
she had allowed herself to be persuaded into giving 
Margaret permission to mingle in society until old 
enough not to be captivated by the attentions of the 
first handsome man who constituted himself her cavalier. 
As a friend of Councillor Turo, and introduced by him. 


MARGARETS FIRST PARTY. 


55 


the young officer could not be ignored ; yet it grieved 
Frau Erlau that one so worthy as Prof. Frohman should 
be slighted for a young man of whom they knew nothing 
except that he was a spendthrift. She regretted that she 
did not summon Margaret to her and advise her not to 
allow him to devote all his time to her, but she could 
not bear to dampen Margaret's pleasure for the evening, 
when perhaps she would never be thrown in his society 
again and would forget him when the party was a thing 
of the past. 

Troubled with these thoughts, she lay sleepless until 
the striking of the hall clock warned her that it was time 
to arise for the duties of the new day. 


S6 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 


CHAPTER V. 

SHADOWS. 

Although Frau Erlau arose at her usual time she did 
not disturb Margaret, thus giving her the opportunity to 
sleep her accustomed number of hours to make up for 
the lateness of retiring and the weariness and excitement 
following the festivity. 

Eric was yet in his room, but Fritz, fresh, active and 
buoyant, was playing with the children on the lawn in 
front of the house. 

Margaret arose about the middle of the forenoon 
languid and weary, but new life came into her manner 
and brightness to her eyes when Reika brought to the 
sitting-room visiting cards which informed her that the 
young lieutenants, Turo and von Norden, were in the 
reception-room, and Frau Erlau and Fritz went with her 
to welcome them. 

The conversation soon grew animated over the pleas- 
ures and incidents of the preceding evening, and Mar- 
garet took active interest in it. 

‘‘It was certainly a charming entertainment,'' said 
Frau Erlau ; “no one, I think, but enjoyed it heartily." 

“And to-morrow we hope to have an equally enjoy- 
able one," said von Norden adroitly; “and I hope, gra- 
cious lady, that you will allow me the pleasure of Frau- 
lein Margaret's company as my partner. " 


SHADOWS. 


5; 


'^Her father is out, and I cannot give an answer un- 
til I consult with him,” replied Frau Erlau, as Margaret 
looked eagerly toward her, hope and anxiety struggling 
for the mastery upon her beautiful features. 

‘‘Here comes Eric!'' exclaimed Lieut. Turo ; “he 
will throw the weight of his opinion in the balance in 
favor of Fraulein Margaret going with us. 

He was not mistaken in this opinion. Eric was so 
favorable to it that his mother was embarrassed by his 
request that she should decide then and there. 

Happily for her wifely regard for her husband's ap- 
proval, the doctor came in at that moment, and seeing 
all eager and expectant the kind father believed that he 
could do no less than to give consent, and Margaret's 
eyes beamed with joy. Their errand completed to their 
full satisfaction, the gentlemen returned to the council- 
lor's, accompanied by Eric, as they wished to agree upon 
future arrangements, and Margaret, all fatigue forgotten, 
flew to her room to look over her wardrobe for a suit- 
able costume for the skating-party. 

“Come and skate with me, Margaret," called Fritz 
from the pond back of the dwelling; “the ice is as 
smooth as a looking-glass." 

“Indeed I haven’t time, Fritz, I have so much to 
do," answered Margaret from the window. 

It was a happy morning for her, sitting by this win- 
dow trimming a dark blue cloth dress with fur from a 
cloak belonging to her mother, and thinking how well 
her costume would match the handsome uniform worn 
by Lieut, von Norden. 


58 


THE DOCTOR’S FAMILY. 


By afternoon her work was completed and she com* 
sented to take a walk to the village with Fritz and the 
little sisters. In the distance they could see skaters 
upon the lake, and she wondered if von Norden were 
among them. 

‘^Let us walk to the shore and look at them gliding 
over the ice,'' said Fritz, seconded by the children. 

‘‘Oh, no," said Margaret flushing nervously, yet anx- 
ious to comply. 

While she was battling with her indecision they were 
getting farther away, and hearing hasty footsteps Fritz 
turned to see who was following, while Margaret quick- 
ened her pace. 

“Don’t walk so fast, Margaret," said he in a low 
tone, “it is von Norden ; he will think we are trying to 
avoid him. 

Margaret obeyed, and soon a pleasant voice accosted 
them. 

“What a pleasant surprise ! Truly a piece of good 
fortune 1" and von Norden was beside them. 

“Were you upon the ice?" questioned Fritz. 

“Yes; but my good genius prompted me to leave 
in time to have this walk with you. I hope I am wel- 
come ?" 

“You need have no doubts of that, Herr Lieuten- 
ant," smiled Fritz, while Margaret blushed and con- 
gratulated herself that even her mother could not find 
any fault with this meeting, it being purely accidental. 

The lieutenant and Fritz were soon in animated con- 
versation, and although Margaret took no part, but de- 


SHADOWS. 59 

voted herself to Else and Frieda, her face glowed with 
happiness. 

When they reached the Erlau gate the lieutenant 
took an opportunity to murmur to Margaret, ''I longed 
to see you ; this meeting was not at all accidental,'' and 
he bowed himself away. It was truly a charming walk, 
and, wishing to avoid the questioning of her mother, 
Margaret hurried up to her room to lay aside her wraps. 

Prof. Frohman called in the evening, and to Marga- 
ret's great relief no allusion was made to her neglect of 
him at the councillor's entertainment. 

Margaret looked very charming in her becoming cos- 
tume the next evening, and she waited impatiently for 
her father, who was detained at a sick-bed. Her mother 
refused to go without him, and to Margaret the half- 
hour of waiting seemed endless. 

At length he came, and with his usual amiability 
took no longer time in making his toilet than was neces- 
sary, and they set out. 

• Eric and Lieut, von Norden were managers for the 
evening, but as soon as Margaret appeared von Norden 
left his position at the entrance as receiver of guests and 
devoted himself to her entertainment. 

As the company was composed principally of those 
who met the evening before at the councillor's there 
was no formality for want of acquaintance, but all en- 
tered heartily into the sport, to the admiration of the 
crowd of lookers-on who surrounded the lake. 

In the centre of it was a roomy tent fitted out with 
carpets and seats and foot-rests, where the chaperones 


6o THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 

could sit in comfort and watch the sport. The many- 
colored Chinese lanterns made it and the whole lake 
brilliant, allowing the costumes of the skaters to appear 
to the best advantage as they glided over the ice to the 
strains of sweet music. 

Margaret was an accomplished skater, having Fritz 
for a teacher, and there was no feat too difficult for her 
to perform. 

hope you enjoy this festival,'' said von Norden, 
noticing her brilliant eyes and flushed cheeks. 

never was so happy in my life," replied she sin- 
cerely; never imagined a skating party- could be so 
delightful." 

‘‘Dare I hope that my society contributes to your 
pleasure ?" 

She blushed, but made no answer. 

“I wish you would say that it would be the happi- 
ness of your life, as it would be of mine, if we could pass 
it together. You would make a different man of me, 
Fraulein Margaret." 

“I dare not listen to you," said Margaret. “I am 
sure that father and mother would not approve." 

“You were destined for a life far different from the 
prosy commonplace life of a country neighborhood like 
this," continued von Norden; “you would be the cen- 
tre of the brilliant circle in which I move in Berlin." 

It charmed him that Margaret took every word he 
uttered with the real earnestness in which he meant it ; 
she was pleased with his attentions and made no effort 
to conceal her pleasure. 


SHADOWS. 


6l 


Therefore he was more than vexed and disappointed, 
when he called the next day to ask Frau Erlau’ s permis- 
sion to act as escort for Margaret at a proposed sleigh- 
ing party, to meet with a prompt and decided refusal. 

Margaret is entirely too young to go into soci- 
ety,'' said she. '^The excitement and weariness of go- 
ing two evenings so near together has been too much 
for one unaccustomed to late hours. She must return 
to our quiet manner of living and find sufficient soci- 
ety in the company of her parents and brothers and sis- 
ters." 

It was a bitter disappointment to von Norden, and 
in his haughty pride he resolved to let them see that he 
had no trouble in finding a partner for his sleighing 
party. He made haste to secure the handsomest and 
wealthiest lady of the Turo set, and waited upon her 
with all courtesy ; but his thoughts were with Margaret, 
her image was ever before him, and when he returned 
that evening he wrote to her a long and impassioned let- 
ter. 

It was also a bitter disappointment to Margaret, and 
it gave her kind parents pain to deny her the pleasure ; 
but they felt they would not be true to her best interests 
to do otherwise. They saw that the young officer was 
winning the affection of their daughter before she was 
old enough to make a right choice of a life-partner, and 
it was far better that she should shed tears of disap- 
pointment at being deprived from attending the sleigh- 
ing party than to have her life marred by an unhappy 
marriage. 


62 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 


The next morning a letter came for Margaret, and 
Reika brought it to the parents in the sitting-room. 

‘‘Who brought it?'' inquired Dr. Erlau. 

“The servant of Herr Lieut, von Norden." 

“Tell him to come here ; I wish to send a message 
by him. ' ' 

“What do you intend doing?" inquired Frau Erlau 
as Reika left the room. 

“Return his letter unopened; it will save future 
trouble." 

By the time the messenger reached the door Dr. 
Erlau had written a few lines and inclosed with them 
von Norden' s letter. 

“Give this to your master," said he, “and into no 
hands but his. Now you can go." 

“ What did you write ?" inquired Frau Erlau. 

“I told him that we wished Margaret to receive 
no letters from any young gentlemen except her bro- 
thers." 

“Surely he will not intrude his attentions after a 
rebuff like that." 

“I hope not; it is very painful to me to treat any 
one in this manner, particularly a friend of the Turos', 
but there seems to be no other way." 

Lieut, von Norden was not only deeply chagrined, 
but angry at the return of his missive. That he, a dash- 
ing young officer who was courted and admired by the 
most fashionable and wealthy people of Berlin, should 
be snubbed by a plain country doctor, with no money 
to speak of, was something not to be tolerated. 


SHADOWS. 


63 


This opinion was succeeded by a sudden resolve to 
visit Dr. Erlau and hear from his own lips the cause of 
his refusal. 

‘‘I will not withhold from you, Herr von Norden, 
that your action in this matter has surprised me very 
much,'' replied the doctor to his inquiry. "'Margaret 
is a mere child, is yet a schoolgirl, and we did not wish 
such thoughts put in her mind for several years." 

"Have you any objection to me personally?" 

‘ " I know scarcely anything of you ; you are in a 
manner an entire stranger." 

"Perhaps there is some one else you prefer for a 
husband for your daughter?" 

Dr. Erlau was far too sincere and truthful to deny 
this, or even evade it. 

"There is a young man whom we have known from 
childhood, who is as one of the family in our home. 
His hopes are set upon winning Margaret, but he has 
concealed his love owing to her youth." 

"What are the great qualifications of this young 
man ?" said von Norden in a slightly sarcastic tone. 

"In the first place, he is a Christian, and my wife 
and myself look upon that as the great consideration in 
life partners for our children. He received his Christian 
training at the hand of the same pastor as Margaret, and 
they have grown up together ; we ask for no better hus- 
band for our daughter than he." 

"But is Fraulein Margaret to have no say in the 
matter ?" 

"Certainly; we will use no coercion, but in such an 


64 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


important matter we will certainly give our advice for 
and against/' 

‘'But after stating my wishes, as I have done to you, 
Dr. Erlau," said Von Norden haughtily, “I think com- 
mon justice would demand that I should have the same 
chance as the one you speak of." 

“Herr von Norden," said the doctor earnestly, 
“the circle in which you move is very different from 
ours, but this would not be so much of an obstacle ; 
before everything we place knowledge of the thorough 
worthiness of one whom we have known all his life. ' ' 

“But you will not leave me without hope," ex- 
claimed von Norden, his cheek growing pale with sup- 
pressed feeling. “You will certainly not keep Fraulein 
Margaret in ignorance of my wishes ?" 

“No ; I will consult with her." 

“Dare I not speak for myself? Perhaps she is not 
indifferent to me." 

“Let us first hold counsel with her," was the reply 
in a kind voice, for the father was touched by the emo- 
tion evinced by the young officer. 

“ I hope you will not influence her against me." 

“We will consider our child's happiness above 
everything else, and you will hear from us at an early 
date." 

They parted, and Dr. Erlau, perplexed and anxious, 
returned to the sitting-room to talk the matter over with 
the mother. Von Norden had won a certain admiration 
for himself, yet they were more than reluctant to have 
him consider Margaret as his future wife. 


SHADOWS. 


65 


Her admiration for him could scarcely be wondered 
at; he was handsome and attractive and was the first 
who had paid her attention, and the result was what 
they might have expected. Her thoughts were with 
him, and they knew her determined, steadfast nature. 
She would rebel against their decision unless they could 
bring specific charges against him, and that they were 
not prepared to do. 

‘^Frohman must be told of this,'' said the Doctor 
after a pause. 

^'It would have perhaps been better had we granted 
his wish to speak to Margaret ; she would then have had 
her mind fixed upon him." 

"'No, I think we did right," replied her husband; 
^‘it would have been unjust to fetter the child with an 
engagement. You must speak to her of what we have 
hoped for ; your mother - heart will tell you what to 
say, and Frohman shall have his chance to speak." 

In the meantime von Norden went to Eric with his 
troubles and found a ready sympathy which comforted 
him not a little. 

Eric passed much of his holiday in the Turo house- 
hold, and as all the world loves a lover, so do lovers, 
when not rivals, feel interest in each other. 

Margaret felt unsettled and correspondingly unhap- 
py. She knew, without being told, that her parents 
favored Frohman and were not favorable to von Nor- 
den, but she was not prepared for such decided opposi- 
tion. They told her with c'onscientious accuracy all the 
conversation between them, and had von Norden been 
5 


66 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


within hearing he would not have been so discouraged 
and depressed. The advice of the mother fell upon deaf 
ears, and it was in vain that the father gave her own 
mother as an example of the happiness of a quiet home 
life instead of the whirl and excitement of fashionable 
society. Margaret turned with a shudder from the con- 
templation of such a humdrum existence ; she could not 
bound her horizon with such narrow limits. 

The highest wish of the parents was for the happiness 
of their child and they saw that Margaret's affections 
were given to von Norden, one who might in time tire 
of her and she would be that forlorn object, a neglected 
wife. Their knowledge of him was so limited that Dr. 
Erlau considered it his duty to forbid an engagement 
between them until they were acquainted at least a year, 
and would allow no correspondence during that year. 
If at the end of the time they were in the same mind 
he would put no further bar to their engagement. 

In all this there was a hope in the minds of Dr. Erlau 
and his wife that there might be a change of heart, 
and so in the manner of living, in Lieut, von Norden, 
to make him worthy to be the life companion of their 
innocent young daughter and a blessing to himself ; or, 
failing in that, that they might lose the affection for each 
other which appeared to be warm and earnest. 

The vacation for his sons being over Dr. Erlau 
accompanied them to Berlin to make inquiry of the 
superior officer of the regiment as to the character 
of von Norden. 

‘'You wish to hear something of Lieut, von Nor- 


SHADOWS. 67 

den ?” said the officer. '' Have you any special reason for 
asking V 

I have, sir. As a father of young sons and daugh- 
ters I have a rational desire to know something of the 
young man who wishes to visit my house.'' 

You are quite right ; and I will tell you to the best 
of my knowledge. He is a young man of splendid gifts 
and attainments but does not make the best use of them, 
and there are also failings in his character. Reports of 
wild escapades and prejudicial situations have come to 
my ears, but as they did not disparage his efficiency as a 
soldier I had no right to interfere. " 

Do you consider him immoral ?" 

‘‘I cannot say that against him. He is only wild 
and thoughtless, and was unfortunate enough to have a 
large fortune in his hands before he was old enough or 
wise enough to take care of it. Perhaps the love of a 
good wife would be the making of him." 

''But it is a fearful risk for that woman," said the 
doctor sadly. 

"I agree with you, but will say that if von Norden 
could be prevailed upon to, abandon the company of his 
profligate companions his nobler nature might assert 
itself, and he might be all that you or any one could 
wish. " 

There seemed to be nothing more to be gained by 
inquiry, and Dr. Erlau thanked the officer for his candor 
and kind regard for the feelings of a father, and went 
home, his heart but little lightened of its burden. 

The employers of Fritz had spoken sincere words of 


68 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


praise of the young man's ability and the professors in 
the college expressed warm admiration for Eric's brilliant 
gifts of intellect, yet Dr. Erlau could not help on his 
homeward way calling to mind the words of an old say- 
ing he had heard in childhood : Little children, little 
cares; grown children, greater cares." 

Life in the Erlau home had resumed its usual quiet 
course now that the Christmas holidays were over. Yes, 
they were in the past, but they had not left Margaret as 
they found her. From a happy, helpful, care-free girl 
she had become a preoccupied, discontented person, who 
took no interest in the employments of the household 
and was indifferent to its pleasures. She was pale and 
spiritless, time hung heavily upon her hands, and she 
looked upon life in the home as the dullest that could be 
lived. In her heart she rebelled against her father's de- 
cree that a whole year should pass before she might 
become betrothed to the man of her choice, and looked 
upon it as a tyrannical use of authority without just 
cause. It was anguish to her too that during the year 
which she was to pass as if in a convent, as she consid- 
ered it, von Norden, mingling in circles of beauty and 
wealth, would forget her. This thought robbed her 
of sleep, and she contrasted her pale face and sad eyes 
with those of a fortnight before, when von Norden had 
worshipped her beauty. If she could only speak out 
her fears to her parents, and weep ! But both means of 
comfort seemed denied her. 

The tender hearts of her parents did not deserve this 
recompense from one of their children. They merited 


SHADOWS. 69 

the fullest confidence, yet Margaret withheld it, prefer- 
ring to fight the battle with anxiety alone. 

Eric wrote but seldom, and his few lines bore evi- 
dence of nervous haste in the writing. Little was said 
of his studies and nothing of his manner of passing his 
leisure hours, which was a subject of great concern to 
his faithful parents. 

Every letter contained a request for money ; and it was 
sent, and with it went the kind though earnest admoni- 
tion to be as economical as possible — reminding him of 
their moderate circumstances, and of the large family at 
home which must be clothed and otherwise provided 
for. 

In Eric's eyes the sum sent was beggarly, and was 
used so far as it would go in paying up old scores ; so he 
was always out of funds, and his requests for money, in 
time, became almost demands. 

Frau Erlau saved in every possible way, and the doc- 
tor gave himself no rest in his calling, looking forward 
with the hope that when Eric was self-supporting the 
roughest side of life would be over for them, and in the 
morning and nightly prayers at the family altar the dear 
sons from under the home roof were the burden of the 
petitions to the Father who never slumbers nor sleeps. 

Fritz received the portion they were able to send 
him with grateful thanks, and his long, affectionate let- 
ters almost compensated for the anxiety given by those 
of Eric. 

The officer whom Dr. Erlau consulted kept his prom- 
ise in regard to writing from time to time, as occasion 


70 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


offered, and the reports were in the main satisfactory. 
The accounts of nocturnal revels held in his room with 
boon companions came to his ears no more ; so it was 
his belief that von Norden was trying to live an exem- 
plary life, and he was therefore willing to give what help 
he could to assist him. 

The truth was that the young officers who had found 
such good prey as a rich and extravagant young man 
used every precaution to keep the secret of their revels 
from the superior officer, and so effectually was it done 
that he was completely blinded, and wrote to Dr. Erlau 
what he actually believed. 

Prof. Frohman took but little pleasure in visiting the 
home where all was so changed, and Margaret's school 
friends, finding her dull and uncompanionable, gradually 
ceased coming, only the younger children keeping up 
life in the old Nest. 


THE PEARL NECKLACE. 


71 


CHAPTER VI. 

THE PEARL NECKLACE. 

The year of probation was finished, and upon the 
very day Margaret received a letter from Lieut, von 
Norden saying that his regard for her was undiminished 
and that he would soon visit Friehausen. 

The parents could not rejoice over this, although 
Margaret again bloomed into beauty like a wilted plant 
that had suddenly gained new strength. Even then 
they could not forbear from imparting to her their fears 
for her future happiness, but Margaret was not to be 
influenced against von Norden ; she was no longer the 
child they had considered her, and reminded them that 
she had fulfilled their wishes and they had no right to 
interfere. 

This letter from von Norden she had destroyed 
before leaving her room, for in it he had spoken sar- 
castically of her parents ; and not for any consideration 
would she have granted their request to see it, well 
knowing its contents would place him in a less ami- 
able light than before. 

There was every respect and esteem for the parents 
remaining in the heart of the wilful girl, and she felt 
deeply hurt that von Norden could* thus speak of them, 
yet the life she would lead in the brilliant circle in 
Berlin when she became his wife blinded her to all else. 


72 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


The lieutenant came at the appointed time and Dr. 
Erlau gave consent to the engagement of the young 
couple, and welcomed the prospective son-in-law as one 
of the home circle. So far as the parents were con- 
cerned the feeling was a genuine wish to make the best 
of the affair, but with von Norden the case was dif- 
ferent. His haughty pride was humiliated at the re- 
luctance of Dr. Erlau and his wife to accept of him 
as the husband of Margaret ; and he was embittered 
against them in consequence, and was determined to 
win her to spite them, as much as for any other reason. 
From his standpoint, he considered that they should 
have felt honored that he, a member of the aristocracy, 
should be willing to unite himself with a burgher family, 
and should receive him with open arms instead of 
putting him upon a year’s probation, and he influenced 
Margaret to look upon it in the same light. 

The plain, quiet style of living in the Erlau house- 
hold was burdensome to him ; so he was rather glad 
that he had so few furloughs to visit there and he made 
this an excuse for hastening the marriage, and the pa- 
rents did not object. 

^^Give Margaret up,” said Dr. Erlau to his wife, 
whose tear-stained face rested upon his shoulder. '‘Our 
child is lost to us, and she suffers in the conflict be- 
tween love and duty ; her place is now with him whom 
she has chosen. Her betrothal period, which should be 
a time of happiness, has no pleasure for her, so it may 
as well be ended. Perhaps God in his own good time 
will reconcile matters ; for this we will pray.” 


THE PEARL NECKLACE. 


73 


The wedding outfit was now the main subject, and 
even in it the prospective bride had but little pleasure, 
for it was not the trousseau which she considered would 
be expected of Lieut, von Norden' s bride, who was to 
reside in the capital city. 

‘‘My means are limited, as you know, dear," said 
her father kindly, “and I must treat all my children 
alike. I will give you the sum that I hope and expect 
to give each of my daughters under like circumstances, 
and wish besides to give you a small dower. ' ' 

“ But Lieut, von Norden does not expect that, fa- 
ther ; you know he said when he asked you for me that 
he neither expected nor desired a dower. ' ' 

“That is his side of the question and I have mine," 
replied her father. ‘ ‘ I cannot allow you to go dower- 
less. I shall do the very best I can for you, and for 
all my children." 

Many times, when Margaret and her other daughters 
were small, had Frau Erlau taken the fine bed-linen and 
table-cloths from the great chests and presses and looked 
them over, thinking of the pleasure she would take in 
portioning to each a share when the time came to leave 
the father's house for that of the husband. Now the 
time had come for one of her birdlings to leave the 
nest, and it was with sad heart and tear-filled eyes that 
she parted those she intended for Margaret from the 
rest, and thought how very different would have been 
her feelings had Prof. Frohman been the happy bride- 
groom. 

That evening the young lieutenant came to visit his 


74 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY. 


betrothed, and in the course of the evening made what 
he considered a very unselfish and considerate speech : 

‘‘Don't trouble yourself, my darling, to prepare an 
elaborate trousseau, for it will be useless in your new 
home. In the circle in which you will be introduced 
the best you can command will be behind the times. 
Friehausen styles will be ridiculed in Berlin, and even 
your maid will make them a subject of jest among her 
associates. And when there I hope you will lay aside 
your faded cheeks and melancholy air, and be the hand- 
some, spirited Margaret of a year ago." 

Dr. Erlau and his wife listened in pained surprise 
but said nothing : his remarks only confirmed their 
opinion of him, and they trembled for their daughter's 
happiness. 

He remained the evening, and when it came time 
to return to Berlin he had a parting word with Margaret. 

“You will be much happier, darling, when we are 
from under the stiff, narrow-minded rule which pervades 
this house, and you will regain your beauty and cheer- 
fulness." 

Margaret made no reply, but that night her pillow 
was wet with tears as she pondered over his heartless 
remarks and wondered if they were in jest or earnest. 

As the wedding-day drew nearer there was a conflict 
going on in Margaret's heart. She was about to leave 
her home and loved ones to be with the husband of her 
choice, but it was not the happy prospect of which she 
had dreamed, for von Norden' s manner during these 
days was not conducive to serene happiness. 


THE PEARL NECKLACE. 


75 


He wrote but seldom, and his letters were not the 
affectionate missives she had supposed an affianced hus- 
band would write to his betrothed. He had told her he 
detested writing letters, and they truly gave evidence of 
it. In lieu of that he sent her rich presents, for which 
she had unaccountably lost all wish, as she felt that he 
would not have given them but for the sake of having 
her make a fine appearance and so do him credit. A 
few loving lines from his hand would have been far 
dearer. 

After reading his short and cold letters she would 
throw herself upon her mother's bosom and weep; and 
Frau Erlau never suspected the cause, but thought they 
only reminded her that the time was drawing near for 
her to leave them all. 

Margaret's sense of maidenly pride and delicacy was 
wounded by the number and costliness of his presents, 
and she was more than once on the point of telling him 
that she preferred waiting until she was his wife before 
receiving them. She was quite aware that he looked 
upon her home and its surroundings as very plain and 
meagre, and it humiliated her to think her wealthy 
bridegroom considered that he was conferring a great 
and condescending favor to take one so humble to a 
higher sphere. 

A fortnight before the time appointed for the wed- 
ding he came for his last visit until the time should arrive 
to take her away as his bride. 

''Is it really true, darling," said he, "that your 
father intends holding the wedding festivities in this old 


76 THE DOCTOR S TAMIL V. 

barrack ? I am in dread that at least half-a-dozen of 
our guests will fracture their limbs, stumbling up or 
down these steps in the corridors. I have prepared my 
comrades what to expect, but this old ark will go be- 
yond anything they ever imagined.^' 

‘^Father would be terribly disappointed if our wed- 
ding was not in the old house where so many gener- 
ations of his family have met their friends in social fes- 
tivities. ' ' 

''Yes, I am well aware that your father is nothing if 
not conservative,’' remarked von Norden in a slightly 
sarcastic tone; "but you, my Margaret, will after a 
while see for yourself the difference between Friehausen 
ideas and those of other parts of the world." 

"Perhaps your ideas will change too, when you are 
a member of our family," replied Margaret, a flush ris- 
ing to her cheeks at the reflection upon her kind father. 

"I think not. Really, child, you don’t know what 
a sacrifice it is to my feelings to be compelled to speak 
to people whom I would not notice in Berlin." 

Margaret was silent. She was getting almost alarmed 
at the thought of mixing with people so different from 
those to whom she was accustomed. 

"Are the guests invited yet?" inquired von Norden 
after a pause. 

"Yes. You know father gave us the choice of a 
large wedding or merely our own family circle, and you 
chose the large wedding. Ours is an old family and we 
have many relatives and friends ; and we have endeav- 
ored to offend none by leaving them out." 


THE PEARL NECKLACE, 


77 


''Oh, bother V’ said the lieutenant, trying to conceal 
his vexation by a laugh in which there was no mirth, 
"I was thinking of my comrades in arms when I spoke 
of a large wedding. I thought you might perhaps in- 
clude the Turos and any other patrician family that 
might be on your list of acquaintances, but I had no 
idea that an avalanche of uncles, aunts and cousins 
would drop down upon us. Bah ! these country people 
are fearful V' 

Margaret had thought this of them many times, in- 
cluding some whom her parents held in high esteem, 
but it was bitter to her to have her future husband speak 
so of them. 

' ' And your locksmith brother ; is he to be in- 
vited ?' ’ 

"Do you mean Fritz.?'' cried Margaret sharply. 
" My kind, affectionate brother Fritz .?" 

"I suppose I should consider your sisterly feeling, 
darling," he responded, "but certainly you can see for 
yourself that locksmiths are scarcely society for officers 
all of whom belong to the old nobility. Is there no 
way to leave him out .?' ' 

"Perhaps it would be better for all parties to leave 
me out also," said Margaret indignantly. ^ 

Von Norden saw that he had gone too far and tried 
by somewhat softened speech to make amends ; but 
Margaret’s feelings were deeply wounded over the insult 
to her generous-hearted brother. 

His furlough being over he returned to Berlin, and 
a few days after Margaret received a letter from him. 


78 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


‘‘You will see by this/' said he, “that my comrades 
are compelled to decline your parents’ invitation to our 
wedding, as our commander refuses to give them fur- 
lough, but we will have a fine reception at our home in 
Berlin, to which they will come, as soon as possible after 
our return from our wedding journey." 

Margaret read between the lines the reason for this 
sudden change of plan, and, although she made no allu- 
sion of the kind to her parents, she was humiliated that 
von Norden would not suffer his associates to meet her 
relatives and friends. 

The friendship between her and Thea had in a meas- 
ure fallen off. Margaret was changed ; had become so 
thoughtful and absent-minded that Thea’s child-like 
society wearied her, while Thea found associates in 
her own circle who were far more congenial than 
Margaret ; but after the strictures made by von Norden 
in regard to her costume Margaret longed for advice 
from someone abreast with the fashions, and went to see 
Madame Villimain.’ 

“ I am charmed, my dear, to be of any use to you," 
said that airy, fickle little lady; “we will consult the 
fashion plates and consider the most stylish way to make 
up your trousseau. I will send to a Paris house and 
have them send ready-made dresses, as I do for Fraulein 
Thea, if you will give me leave." 

“O no, dear Madame Villimain ; it would cost too 
much," said Margaret apprehensively. 

“But at such a time your father should open his 
purse," said the governess. 


THE PEARL NECKLACE. 


79 


Margaret reddened and a pained look crossed her 
features. She knew that her kind, generous father had 
strained every nerve to give her sufficient for her needs. 

‘‘But we will not be discouraged,'' continued 
madame briskly, ' ' with the meagre means you have at 
command perhaps we can contrive something presenta- 
ble. Now if you had only accepted the councillor's 
invitation, and come here to live, what a grand wedding 
we could have had !" 

Margaret winced at the thought that she could have 
ever listened to a proposition of the kind, and realized 
that no grandeur would tempt her to be married any- 
where save under the old home roof. 

Together they consulted the styles for making even- 
ing toilets, and one was selected which would suit the 
simple white muslin which Frau Erlau provided for the 
bridal dress. She thanked Madame Villimain, who wil- 
lingly offered to lend her the fashion-plate, and hurried 
home. 

Aided by her mother, the dress was made neatly 
enough to satisfy the most exacting, and the evening it 
was finished Margaret received from her betrothed a 
splendid tiara of brilliants and rubies, which gave her no 
pleasure, owing to the depression caused by the criti- 
cisms uttered during his last visit and his short, curt 
letter. 

‘‘They are the handsomest gems I ever saw, Mar- 
garet," said her mother, wondering that her daughter, 
who once took delight in such things, showed so little 
appreciation. 


8o 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 


'"But Gustav wishes me to wear them with my 
bridal dress/' replied Margaret, sighing over the incon- 
gruity of brilliants and white muslin. 

‘'I am sorry," replied her mother anxiously. '‘It 
has been always the custom in our family for brides to 
wear a myrtle-wreath with the bridal veil, but of course 
you must abide by the wishes of your bridegroom. 
Much against my wish I wore the pearl necklace. My 
mother-in-law clasped it about my neck, saying that I 
must wear it as the bride of the eldest son of the house, 
to whom for many generations it had fallen heir. She 
mentioned also that there was an old superstition that 
pearls were unlucky for a bride, but added, ' Dear child, 
what we need in this life is a firm trust in God ; he will 
protect and care for us, and pearls can have no influence 
either for good or evil." 

Margaret had heard this many times, yet was never 
weary listening to bits of experience from her mother's 
life. 

"Ah," thought she, "mother was a far happier 
bride than I." 

"You never wear the lovely pearl necklace, moth- 
er," said she after a pause. 

"I never have occasion, my child. We have always 
lived so plainly, and the costly pearls would not have 
been in place with my simple dress. I have only been 
care-taker of them until placed in other hands." 

Margaret's heart throbbed with a new thought, and 
there arose in her an ardent longing for the pearl neck- 
lace. It would excite the surprise of von Norden and 


THE PEARL NECKLACE, 


8l 


her own pride would be gratified that she could have 
jewels without being beholden to him. 

She did not intimate this to her mother, but she 
sought Madame Villimain, the first opportunity, and 
told her of the pearls. 

Why should they be denied you.'*’' said the gover- 
ness. You have as good right to them as anyone, and 
they would look lovely upon your fair neck.” 

‘‘But mother said they were for Eric’s wife; she 
never seemed to speak as if anyone else could wear 
them.” 

“I should think an own daughter should have as 
good right as a daughter-in-law; and I don’t see why 
you might not ask her.” 

“Oh, I could never summon courage to do that.” 

“Then I will tell you your wisest plan,” said Ma- 
dame Villimain reflectively ; ‘ ‘ wait until the very evening 
before the wedding day, when your parents will not like 
to refuse any request of yours, and ask for the pearls, 
first getting Eric’s consent to unite in the request.” 

Margaret agreed to this, feeling sure that Eric’s inter- 
cession would not be hard to gain, and that it would be 
all that was needed with the mother. 

The last evening came, and Margaret felt herself so 
surrounded by love that she evinced a tenderness toward 
the home-circle which she had long withheld from them; 
yet there remained the constraint between her parents 
and herself, unnoticed by others but which they them- 
selves felt, yet seemed incapable of eradicating. 

The younger girls were in joyous anticipation of the 

6 


82 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


morrow's festivities, the arrival of the brothers from 
Berlin being one of the advance pleasures, Fritz bring- 
ing an atmosphere of good cheer into the house. 

Eric had written that he could remain but one day, 
and Frau Erlau read the few lines many times, disturbed 
because of the appearance of nervous haste in the writ- 
ing ; and when he came and she noticed his pale cheeks 
and hollow eyes her anxiety was not diminished. He 
bore himself in his usual composed and reserved man- 
ner, but there was a suppressed restlessness which did 
not escape her notice. 

You are not well, Eric," said his father when they 
were alone ; ‘^tell me, my boy, where you are ailing." 

‘‘I am in good health, father," replied Eric some- 
what petulantly, ‘‘but have been studying very hard." 

After this conversation Eric was more upon his guard 
than ever. He talked of the doings at the college, spoke 
with warmth of the kindness of the professors, and 
asked questions of Fritz in regard to his occupation, 
and Frau Erlau, whose every moment was filled with 
the care of the wedding festivities, longed for a quiet 
word with him. 

Margaret had not forgotten the pearls, but the even- 
ing was far spent before she had an opportunity to 
speak to her mother about it ; she had solicited the 
assistance of Eric, and when they saw Frau Erlau take 
a lamp to go to the linen-room they followed, and Mar- 
garet proffered her request. 

Frau Erlau was much disturbed and perplexed, and 
for a moment could not make reply. She longed to 


THE PEARL NECKLACE. 


83 


gratify the request of her daughter who was so soon to 
leave the home roof, yet there were other things which 
must be considered. 

‘'But, Eric, the pearl necklace is not mine to give. 
It will be the property of the wife of our eldest son : 
your wife. '' 

“Your eldest son has no wife, mother, and it is 
doubtful if he will ever have one,” replied Eric with a 
faint attempt at a smile. “Let Margaret have it; you 
do n't wear it, little mother. ” 

“That is not the question, my son. It is an heir- 
loom of the Erlau family, and I hope to clasp it about 
the neck of your bride as your father's mother clasped 
it about mine." 

“My bride is a mythical person, mother." 

“Should it not be given to a young wife who bears 
the name of Erlau then I must keep it till my death," 
said his mother with tear-dimmed eyes ; “it must not 
pass out of the name. It grieves me to deny the re- 
quest of Margaret, but she will be rich, and pearls will 
be no novelty to her. The pearls must lie in the 
casket until Eric has a wife ; if he never marries, they 
must lie there until my death, when I can be their 
care-taker no longer.',' 

To Eric, who was bowed down with a secret trouble, 
his mother's emotion over the refusal of Margaret's 
request was surprising, it seemed such a trifle in com- 
parison to the anxiety which oppressed him, as did 
also Margaret's longing for the bauble ; for Eric was 
deeply in debt, and saw no possible way of getting 


84 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


out. His extravagant tastes, his amusements, his de- 
termination to have more expensive bxDoks and handsome 
cases of instruments than were owned by any other 
student, had cost sums of money far in advance of the 
supply furnished by his father. 

Two hundred dollars were to be paid in a short 
time, and he had no possible way to raise the money. 
These thoughts haunted him night and day, and at a 
time when his mind should have been fixed upon his 
studies ; for the examination was close at hand, and he 
was ambitious to come off with the highest honors. 

Often his head was so heavy from loss of sleep that he 
could not study, and his hand trembled so much that 
he could not hold the operating knife. The professors 
warned him, and his best friends among the students ad- 
vised him against such disregard of health, and some- 
times he would throw aside his books and rush out 
amid his wild companions, hoping to forget his troubles. 

He had a hope that his father could and would 
help him out of his difficulties ; but when he came 
home and saw the added expense which the wedding 
entailed, and the anxiety and hard work with which his 
parents were battling, the needs of each member of 
the family, which could not be supplied owing to the 
demands which he had made upon the father's purse, 
he felt it to be impossible to add to the burden. 

He had borrowed of von Norden, and under the pres- 
ent circumstances could not with any sense of delicacy 
ask for more. The Councillor Turo, he reflected, 
might be willing to extend a helping hand, and during 


THE PEARL NECKLACE. 


85 


sleepless nights he would resolve to ask assistance from 
him, but the morning light dispelled the thought ; his 
reserved nature was chilled by that of the councillor ; he 
could not get his own consent to ask a loan of Thea's 
father. 

That night, when the whole family except himself 
was wrapped in slumber, he lay and listened to the reg- 
ular breathing of Fritz, and longed for the sweet re- 
freshing sleep he too had enjoyed when in boyhood they 
shared that room, before he had gone out into the world 
from the home nest and allowed himself to be hurled 
into the vortex of fashionable dissipation which had 
brought him to the verge of ruin. 

He reflected, as he had done many times before, 
that he must have repose of mind in order that he 
might sleep, and he must sleep or his mind would 
give way under the pressure forced upon it. 

Suddenly an avenue of escape was opened to his 
harassed brain, and he wondered that it had not come 
to him before : the pearls. They were his, and his 
seared conscience and warped judgment reasoned that he 
might make use of them in any way he thought best. 
He had heard his mother say that they were worth 
hundreds of dollars, and he knew a Jew pawn-broker in 
Berlin who would advance money upon them. He did 
not believe that his mother would lend them to him, but 
he had heard her say that they would lie in the casket 
until she would clasp them upon the neck of his bride, 
or until death released her from the guardianship of 
the necklace, so he had no fear that they would be 


86 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 


missed, and the moment he could redeem them it should 
be done. He knew the secret drawer in which the 
casket containing them was kept. It was in a small 
closet in the wall of the linen-room, and the keys were 
in a basket in a bureau in the same room. He reasoned 
with himself that it would save his mother a world of 
anxiety if he took them secretly ; then, when he made 
money by his profession, he would restore them to their 
old place and tell her the whole story. 

Thus Satan tempted him, and he did not bid him 
flee but listened and obeyed. He arose stealthily from 
his bed, and threw his dressing gown about him, 
and unlocking the chamber door noiselessly he crept 
through the long corridors until he reached the linen- 
room, where he sat down in his mother’s chair too weak 
from nervous excitement to stand. The full moon 
shone through the wide casement, and lighted up every 
well-known object. How often had his mother prayed 
there for her children, oftener perhaps for him than the 
others, who were much easier governed than he. 

But he must pass no more time in reflection. He 
stepped to the bureau and drew open the drawer, which 
creaked, causing his forehead to become damp with 
anxiety. He paused and listened, but there was no 
sound that betokened that the noise had awakened 
any sleeper. He secured the key, and unlocking the 
closet without difficulty took out the casket and re- 
moved the necklace from its velvet-lined resting place. 
The pearls gleamed mildly in the moonlight, and hastily 
placing the necklace in the pocket of his dressing-gown 


THE PEARL NECKLACE. 


87 


he put the casket back in its place, locked the closet, 
restored the key to its basket, closed the drawer without 
noise and returned to his room and bed. But not to 
sleep ; the whole proceeding lay heavy upon his con- 
science, and it was only when the dawning of a new 
day aroused his spirits to the thought that he had se- 
cured a means of escape from his harassing debts that 
he dropped into slumber. 

He was aroused by the voice of Fritz, who had arisen 
at his usual time. 

‘‘Wake up, Eric,'' said he with a light laugh ; “ you 
must be lying in a uncomfortable position. You are 
groaning and moaning as though you were a criminal 
dreading punishment." 

“Just what I am," said Eric bitterly, then realizing 
that he was condemning himself he reddened vividly, 
and arose to dress. 

“I hope you are not angry at my foolish speech, 
Eric," said Fritz noticing the flushed face of his brother. 
“I saw you were uncomfortable and thought it better 
to waken you." 

Eric saw that he had betrayed himself and tried to 
pass the affair off without exciting suspicion in the 
mind of Fritz, and succeeded ; and Fritz descended to 
the sitting-room to have a game with the younger chil- 
dren before breakfast. 

Margaret was there, looking from the window and 
thinking of the converse she had held with her mother 
the evening before, converse which she would always 
treasure in her heart of hearts. 


88 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


Her parents had decided that the last evening that 
Margaret would be at home as the eldest unmarried 
daughter of the house should be with them and the 
others of the family circle. The evening had passed 
pleasantly in conversation, games and music, and when 
Margaret retired to her own little room, where she had 
passed sad and happy hours, Frau Erlau followed for 
a last quiet talk with her loved daughter. 

She spoke earnest words to her from, her rich ex- 
perience, of her duty as a wife and mistress of a home, 
and the little room became a sanctuary where a pious 
mother prayed for God’s blessing upon the future of 
her child. 

Margaret was comforted as she had not been for a 
year by this conversation, and she wept tears of mingled 
happiness and regret as she rested her head upon her 
mother’s breast. All the restraint which had ruled her 
spirit was gone, and she wondered how she could have 
held herself aloof from her dear mother, who had noth- 
ing but love and forgiveness for her waywardness. 

Frau Erlau helped her disrobe as though she were 
yet a child, and sat by her until she dropped into a 
sweet peaceful sleep, then returned to her own room, 
and wearied with her day of many cares was soon obliv- 
ious of them all, and of the creaking drawer and Eric’s 
stealthy tread through the silent corridors. 

The next evening the old house was ablaze with 
light from basement to attic, and the sound of many 
cheery voices proved that the uncles, aunts and cousins 
had accepted the invitation to the wedding. 


THE PEARL NECKLACE. 


89 


Margaret looked very lovely in her simple robe of 
white muslin, and the handsome bridegroom looked 
very elegant in the eyes of the relatives in his showy 
uniform. But what was more than all to the parents, 
the young couple seemed happy in each other, and they 
prayed that a life of comparative happiness might await 
them. 

After the wedding supper the newly married couple 
set out on their wedding journey to Italy, the guests 
went home, Eric and Fritz returned to Berlin, and quiet- 
ness again reigned in the old house. 


90 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


CHAPTER VII. 

A VISIT TO BERLIN. ' 

The next day after the departure of the bridal couple 
for Italy, Frau Erlau wandered from room to room in 
the great house feeling a sense of loss. She devoted 
herself the more to the comfort of those who remained, 
as during the busy time preceding and during the wed- 
ding festivities much had been neglected ; but her 
thoughts were far away. 

For Fritz she had no anxiety. His letters were filled 
with the record of his everyday life ; he was serenely 
contented in doing the duty nearest at hand, serving 
his God and his employer to the best of his ability, 
helping any whom he could help with advice and sym- 
pathy, grateful to his parents for the little help they 
could give him, satisfied with his place in life, and 
anxious to give his parents the satisfaction of know- 
ing it. 

Eric had passed his examination in an exceptionally 
brilliant manner, and so far as that went his parents were 
gratified and grateful to God who had endowed him 
with gifts of intellect, which it was their constant prayer 
he might use as a blessing to himself and his fellow- 
creatures. ' 

He had pawned the pearls for a good sum of money, 
which was increased by the sale of part of his books, 








A VISIT TO BERLIN. 


91 


and with it paid the most pressing of his debts, and his 
trouble was Jiow to meet the balance of the debt. Nat- 
urally his letters showed the anxiety of his mind, noticed 
by the parents, but the cause not suspected, and, had 
they known it, they would have been powerless to assist. 

Margaret’s letters the first few weeks were filled with 
delight of travelling in Italy. It was a new experience 
for her, and she enjoyed every moment of sight-seeing. 

Their journey over, they returned to the beautiful 
home which von Norden had provided in Berlin, and 
inaugurated their housekeeping by giving a grand re- 
ception to which all the young officers of von Norden’ s 
acquaintance were invited. Since then her life had been 
a round of amusements and late hours ; sometimes 
mentioned with an undertone of sadness and weariness ; 
and Dr. Erlau looked anxious upon reading of it, and 
feared her health would suffer. 

Though Berlin was not a long journey by railway 
from Friehausen, yet months passed and there was no 
word of Margaret visiting her old home or of any mem- 
ber of the family being invited to visit her. 

At length one day a letter came giving evidence of 
joyous eagerness in the writer. It was from Margaret, 
saying that there was to be a great review of the troops 
in a distant town, and Lieut, von Norden would be ab- 
sent from home several days, during which time Margaret 
purposed coming to visit her parents. 

There was great rejoicing in the old house over this 
news, but it was of short duration, for by next mail 
came another letter from Margaret which showed traces 


92 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY, 


of tears. This one gave the information that an aunt 
of von Norden’ s living near the town where the review 
was to be held had written to him to bring his wife to 
stay with her during the time, so it was impossible for 
Margaret to visit Friehausen. 

The letter appeared so cold and formal that Dr. 
Erlau was wounded at Margaret’s indifference, but the 
mother could read between the lines the repressed emo- 
tion which indited it ; could see the bitter disappoint- 
ment borne in silence that her husband might not re- 
ceive the blame from them which he richly merited. 

Meta was the only one of the family not disappoint- 
ed over the failure of the visit. She was devoted to 
books and despised housework ; therefore anything that 
disturbed the solitude favorable to literature and added 
to the usual routine of domestic duties was not coveted. 

Her devotion to science rendered her silent and ab- 
stracted and inclined to hold herself aloof from others ; 
she made an exception, however, in favor of the even- 
ings, joining the other members of the family in the par- 
lor and adding her share to the entertainment ; for it 
was one of Frau Erlau’ s rules that all work should cease 
with the close of the day, and music, games and conver- 
sation enliven the evening. Then, if the husband and 
father could share it with them, her contentment and 
Frieda’s was assured. 

The orphaned Emmi was the opposite to Meta in 
disposition, and a stranger would have thought her the 
daughter of the house instead of the reserved Meta. She 
was a cheerful, bright girl, busy from morning until 


A VISIT TO BERLIN. 


93 


night helping Frau Erlau and Reika in their household 
duties, and now that she was free from school the only 
shadow of her life was removed. She was the careful, 
yet joyous, sunny Martha of the household, untiring, 
stopping at no difficulty, never happier than when 
smoothing the way for others ; living literally, so far as 
she could, John Wesley's plan for life: '‘Do all the good 
you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you 
can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, 
to all the people you can, as long as ever you can." 
Reika often said of her, "Of all our girls Emmi is the 
best;" at which Frau Erlau smiled, harboring no re- 
sentment against the old servant who valued the orphan 
above the daughters. 

Since Margaret's marriage Prof. Frohman had re- 
sumed his visits to the Erlau homestead, where from the 
rich stores of his knowledge he added to the evening's 
entertainment, and all were glad when he was present 
and sorry when an engagement prevented his coming. 

Time passed on and Margaret was the mother of a 
little daughter, and the hearts of the grandparents were 
filled with joy and gratitude that the little one was well- 
formed and healthy. 

Frau Erlau' s longing was to hasten to her daughter, 
but von Norden had notified them that he had written 
to his aunt to come to stay with Margaret, so Frau 
Erlau was compelled to wait for an invitation which 
was very slow in coming. 

At length the grandparents were informed that the 
baby had been named for von Norden' s aunt, and they 


94 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


were invited, together with a large company, to celebrate 
the occasion and to see little Marie. 

Doctor and Frau Erlau lost no time in deciding upon 
going. They would much have preferred to see no com- 
pany, that they might not go to extra expense in the 
way of dress, but they would not let that stand in the 
way of their first invitation to visit Margaret in her 
home. 

‘^Mother, will you wear the pearls?'' asked Emmi, 
who was doing her own and Frau Erlau' s share of work 
that she might not be too tired to enjoy the visit to Ber- 
lin. 

‘‘No, dear; I never wore them when younger, now 
it would look very silly in me to commence with my 
grey hairs and faded face." 

“Faded, indeed!" cried Emmi; “you are as fresh 
and blooming as a moss rose, and your hair is beautiful 
with its slight tinge of frost. The pearls would look 
lovely with your rich black silk costume at the party." 

Frau Erlau hesitated, but only for a moment. 

“No, dear," she said, “I will never take them from 
their resting-place in the casket until I place them on 
the neck of Eric's bride. 1 told him this, and will keep 
my word." 

Meta added her entreaties ; but Frau Erlau had de- 
cided, so nothing more was said, and when preparations 
were completed they set out for Berlin. 

Lieut, von Norden met them at the station in an 
elegant equipage, one of his servants caring for the bag- 
gage. 


A VISIT TO BERLIN. 95 

‘'How is Margaret?'' was Frau Erlau's first ques- 
tion as they greeted him. 

“She is well ; not strong, but improving daily." 

“Are you, not afraid that the large company' you 
have invited for to-morrow evening will tax her strength 
too much ?" 

“Oh, she will have no care of that ; I have plenty of 
servants; all she has to do is to give orders." 

The conversation between the gentlemen languished 
during the drive, and Frau Erlau sat silent in the car- 
riage communing with her own thoughts. 

At length the spirited horses were reined up before a 
handsome residence in a fashionable part of Berlin ; they 
descended, and von Norden accompanied them up the 
broad marble steps. 

At the entrance stood Margaret, pale and weak, with 
a filmy veil thrown over her blonde hair, and smiling 
and weeping in nervous delight. The parents embraced 
her, then Dr. Erlau almost carried her to a couch in the 
reception-room, where he bade her recline and rest. But 
she could not ; she must rise and place her head upon 
her mother's breast and weep for joy. 

“Now you must see our blessed babe!" said she, 
wiping away her tears. She led the way to the nur- 
sery, and drawing aside the* lace curtains gazed with 
tears of maternal happiness upon -the infant, while her 
parents spoke in warm terms of its healthy appear- 
ance. 

“It is certainly a fine child, one that any parent 
might be proud of," said Dr. Erlau sincerely. 


96 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


'‘A dear child to train for heaven, dear Margaret,"' 
said Frau Erlau tenderly. 

‘‘My wife imagines the little one has eyes like its 
grandmother," said von Norden in a slightly satirical 
tone as he came in and stood with the others about the 
cradle, “but I do n't see that it resembles anything ; it 
is a homely little pug." 

“Gustav does not act like a father," said Margaret, 
reddening painfully, yet trying to smile. 

“ I know nothing of children," replied he, “except 
that they are troublesome things that put a ban upon all 
social pleasures. Since she came I am of no account in 
this house, everybody must be pressed into her service." 

“Oh, I lived through many such times," said Dr. 
Erlau, trying to laugh cheerfully, as he and von Norden 
turned from the cradle. 

Mother and daughter were in loving converse over 
the infant, and Margaret gave with maternal pride many 
instances of little Marie's precocity. 

“But we would like to make the acquaintance of 
your husband's aunt, Frau von Neuenburg," said Frau 
Erlau after a pause. 

“Frau von Neuenburg !" cried Margaret in surprise. 
“Why, she is not here." 

“Was she not here?"* 

“No • nothing was said of her coming." 

“Then who cared for you and this dear babe?" 

“Oh, Margaret had the best of care," interrupted 
von Norden. “Our servants are the best to be had any- 
where, and money will always command good service. 


A VISIT TO BERLIN. 


97 


I forgot to mention that aunt could not come. When 
a man has so much on his mind as I have he cannot be 
expected to remember everything. ' ' 

Frau Erlau’s eyes filled with tears as she thought of 
the young mother, scarcely herself more than a child in 
years, and altogether one in experience, with no one but 
servants about her, and whom only a husband's selfish- 
ness prevented from having a mother's care and com- 
panionship. 

The manner of living in the von Norden household 
was as sumptuous as those of far wealthier noblemen ; 
far too elegant for Frau Erlau, who could not feel at 
home with anything except Margaret and the babe, but 
it was a comfort to her to see that her daughter was not 
overpowered by the grandeur, the servants, nor the man- 
ner of von Norden. She was mistress of herself and 
her household and commanded respect from all about 
her. 

But her father's experienced eye saw that she was far 
from well. He read this in the pallor of her face, the 
quick change of color, and the languid step, and it grieved 
him that she was exerting herself to make preparations 
for the many guests of the following evening. 

He could not forbear speaking of this, whereupon 
von Norden frowned, and Margaret placed her hand 
with a restraining pressure upon her father's arm. 

She was much changed, to the anxious gaze of the 
parents, not only in appearance but manner. From 
a vain thoughtless girl, thinking only of dress and amuse- 
ment, she had become a careful tender mother, living 
7 


98 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


only for the comfort of her husband and child. Von 
Norden' s complaint, that she was indifferent to his 
comfort, was without foundation ; for the parents could 
see that she warded all care from him, while he appeared 
not at all solicitous to keep annoyances from her, but 
reported every little mismanagement in the household 
which came under his critical eye. 

‘‘Margaret should retire early," said Dr. Erlau, sev- 
eral hours after they had finished supper. “She is weak, 
and needs all the rest that is possible. ' ' 

“She does not care to retire so early," remarked von 
Norden ; “we sit up quite late of evenings." 

“But this evening I am commander of the regi- 
ment," said Dr. Erlau smiling deprecatingly, “and my 
commands must be obeyed." 

“But I would rather stay up with you this evening," 
said Margaret turning to her mother. 

“The mother must go to bed also," said Dr. Erlau. 
“She is tired and is not accustomed to late hours. You 
will both need all the rest you can get in order to look 
your prettiest, as mother and grandmother of that fine 
babe, when your guests come." 

Margaret took his advice and with her babe retired to 
her room, accompanied by Frau Erlau, who sat by her 
bed and talked at Margaret's request — who realized her 
weakness in the great relief of rest. It was to her the 
happiest hour since she left the old home. She asked 
questions to her heart's content, and more than once 
laughed with the care-free merriment of her girlhood 
days. 


A VISIT TO BERLIN. 


99 


^^Oh, if I could only be at home with you for a 
while/' said she, sighing; ‘^just to rest for a while from 
society. I wanted to go at the time of the review, but 
Gustav and his aunt had made other arrangements." 

Frau Erlau pressed the thin hand in silence. Not 
through fault of hers would she tempt the young wife 
to hint one word disparaging to her husband. But Mar- 
garet had no wish or intention of doing this ; instead she 
began to speak, with the delight and pride of a young 
mother, of little Marie. 

‘^Just look, dear mother, how sweetly the precious 
one sleeps ! This summer when we come to visit you she 
will be so cute and knowing. Wont the girls be aston- 
ished and delighted with her ! Just to think I was once 
as small as she, and lay upon your lap, you dear good 
mother ! One cannot appreciate a mother as she should 
be appreciated until she is herself a mother. With this 
dear little one for company I shall not dread being 
alone so much, and the hours and days will not seem so 
long." 

'‘Does the service keep your husband so much from 
you?" 

"Yes; and I should adapt mysell to it and not be 
so unreasonable as I have been lately. I cared most at 
night, when he was among his friends ; then it seemed 
that I could scarcely bear it." 

Frau Erlau made no reply ; she was pondering over 
what she had heard, and her heart throbbed with yearn- 
ing pity over the neglected young wife. 

"But you must not be worried," said Margaret 


TOO 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


quickly, noticing her silence ; ^ ' I am so foolish. Men, 
particularly officers, must have their clubs and social 
gatherings among their comrades. Gustav was right 
when he blamed my selfishness, and said I would act 
like a child when you came and tell you things to worry 
you.'' 

''Oh no, dear; but I think I had better leave you 
now and let you sleep." 

"Yes, mother; but let us talk a little longer. Oh, 
it is so good to see you sitting here, as you have done 
ever since I was a child when anything troubled me. I 
cannot sleep for thinking of the company to-morrow 
evening. I do hope, for the sake of Gustav, that all will 
pass ofif well ; he is so sensitive. Mother, did you bring 
the pearls to wear to-morrow evening ?' ' 

"No, dear; you know I said 1 would never wear 
them." 

"And it was my selfishness in wanting you to give 
them to me that made you say it. Oh, mother, I am 
sorry for many things I said and did when at home. 
And you and dear, kind father were so patient. I often 
wonder how I could have been so heartless — to insist 
upon a large wedding, to please Gustav, when you had 
so much care to provide for us all !" 

"Don't live in the past, dear; it is useless only so 
far as we can profit by its experience, and that you have 
done and will do. As for the company to-morrow even- 
ing, I do not see how it can be anything but a success, 
with such a large, handsome house and plenty of ser- 
vants. ' ' 


A VISIT TO BERLIN. . 


lOI 


^‘But Gustav is so particular and hard to please,’' 
sighed Margaret; ''he will not let one little failure go 
unreproved, but all must be under military discipline. 
It really seems impossible to live up to his ideas, and his 
large circle of stylish friends are just like him in that 
respect." 

"But they certainly will not expect so much of a 
young wife, and in the household of a lieutenant." 

"But, mother, that is just the point with Gustav. 
If he were a general or great commander of any rank he 
would not be so solicitous for appearances ; he would be 
more independent. As it is, he strains every nerve to be 
one with officers of higher rank, and it keeps him and 
all about him upon the rack." 

"Yes, trying to live beyond one's position is trying 
to any one," commented Frau Erlau. 

"But I dare not say anything like that to Gustav; 
he would say it was only my excuse for incapacity. Oh, 
mother, I often think how I used to long for society and 
luxury, and never imagined that I could think it a bur- 
den; but as soon as I became accustomed to it all 
charm was gone. Many times, when I have gone from 
one gay scene to another, I have longed with tears of 
longing for the rest and quietude of my dear old home." 

"But could you not live a quieter life?" questioned 
Frau Erlau timidly; "would not your husband be 
willing to pass quiet evenings at home if you asked 
him?" 

"No; it seems impossible. An officer so much ad- 
mired in society as he must not slight any invitation. 


102 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY, 


Besides, he lives on excitement, and home is the dullest 
place in the world to him unless we have company/' 

But when you were not well, and could not accom- 
pany him?" said the mother anxiously. 

‘‘Then he went without me, and that was harder to 
bear than all," replied Margaret; then, fearing she had 
said too much, she clasped her mother's hand remorse- 
fully. 

“You really must go to sleep, dear," said Frau 
Erlau, “or your father will say that my visit is doing 
you more harm than good." 

Margaret obeyed like a tired child. She closed her 
eyes, but opened them now and then to be sure it was 
not a dream and that the dear form of her mother was 
beside her, then dropped into a deep sleep. 

Frau Erlau remained for some time by the bedside, 
gazing upon the sweet, childlike face of her daughter, 
noting the pale cheeks and sad, weary expression even in 
sleep. 

All that she and her husband had dreaded had come 
to pass. Margaret was not happy in circumstances so 
different from what she had been accustomed to, and 
von Norden, who was devoted in his care and attention 
in the early days of acquaintance, and before his selfish 
pride had been offended by the rductance of Dr. Erlau 
to accept of him as a member of his family, was a neg- 
lectful husband. 

The mother's tender heart yearned over her child, 
yet there was no way to help or comfort ; she could say 
or do nothing that would not reflect upon the hus- 


A VISIT TO BERLIN. IO3 

band ; she could only take her care and anxiety to her 
God. 

After a time she arose softly and went to her room, 
where she and Dr. Erlau talked until late in the night, 
while von Norden, accustomed to late hours, enter- 
tained some brother officers in the parlor below. 

The next day was a very busy one, owing to the 
preparations for refreshments for a large company, and 
Frau Erlau gladly cared for the little Marie, thus allow- 
ing the nurse to assist the other servants. 

Evening came, the house was brilliantly illuminated, 
and Eric was the first to come, but remained but a 
little while, excusing himself with the plea of having 
pressing duties at the college. 

Fritz did not make his appearance, for the simple 
reason that von Norden did not invite him ; and 
Margaret was deeply wounded over the affair, and 
reddened painfully when her parents asked if he would 
be there, and to her reply that he was not expected 
made no comment, well knowing the cause. 

The festival was a grand success ; the little Marie 
was all that one could wish in behavior and appearance, 
as she was brought into the parlors a few minutes be- 
fore the refreshments were served, and Margaret never 
looked more charming nor did the honors more grace- 
fully. 

Dr. and Frau Erlau really enjoyed the entertainment, 
and when, after the guests had departed, von Norden 
drew Margaret's head to his breast and said he was proud 
of her, the parents cherished a hope that he really cared 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


104 

for her. In truth the lieutenant was in good spirits that 
his fashionable friends had appreciated Dr. Erlau and 
his wife. He had cherished no fears in regard to their 
appearance and conversation, as Berlin could not show 
a finer looking middle-aged couple than they, or people 
more intelligent and refined ; but he feared that their 
want of knowlege of fashionable society might prove 
embarrassing, and was more than satisfied that they had 
been a credit to him. 

They had intended returning to Friehausen the next 
day but Margaret urged them to stay a day longer, and 
the request being seconded by von Norden they ac- 
cepted, particularly as they had not seen Fritz. It 
was evident to them that von Norden had dreaded their 
influence upon Margaret, and meddling with the affairs 
of his household, but as neither surmise was correct he 
grew quite social and willing to share in entertaining 
them, and they w^ent home well pleased with the visit, 
and having the promise of Margaret to visit them very 
soon ; and Fritz, whom they had called to see at his 
place of business, was to accompany her, if he could 
leave Berlin at that time. 

The young people at home were never weary of 
hearing of Margaret and the baby, and waited impa- 
tiently for the promised visit. 

At length she came, but not with Fritz. He had 
finished his apprenticeship and gone to England to 
complete his studies of machinery in a great factory 
there, taking with him a hearty recommendation from 
his employer. 


A VISIT TO BERLIN. 


105 


The babe was truly a well-spring of pleasure in the 
old house, and Dr. and Frau Erlau seemed to live a 
new life in their little grandchild ; yet their thoughts 
were centered upon Margaret. Without a word from 
her, they saw that she was far from happy. 

Without appearing to notice they gave heed to her 
restless eagerness to have a letter from her husband, and 
when the few hastily-written lines came they noticed the 
paleness which overspread her features as she read and 
afterward the traces of tears. 

Frieda seemed to be of inexpressible comfort to Mar- 
garet. Since her coming home a great tenderness had 
sprung up between the young mother and the blind 
girl. Without confidences being asked or given Frieda 
realized that Margaret was not the light-hearted creature 
she was before becoming acquainted with von Norden. 
She commented upon it to no one, but wondered in 
secret over the cause. 

The lieutenant had arranged to come to Friehausen 
for a visit of one day during her stay ; instead he wrote 
to her that he had not been feeling quite well, so had 
decided to take a trip to Ostend with some of his brother 
officers. 

When Margaret read this she laid her head upon 
Frieda's breast and wept, without being questioned or 
having a fear that the action would be commented upon 
to the others. 

The roses which had begun to come into Margaret's 
cheeks faded after the reception of this letter ; she grew 
more restless, and her sleep was not refreshing. 


io6 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


‘‘If I only knew who his companions were/' said 
she once almost involuntarily. The happiness which 
she had felt in being at home gave place to anxiety to 
return to Berlin, and when, at the close of his furlough, 
von Norden wrote that he wished her to remain longer 
with her parents, that he might make some improve- 
ments in their dwelling, her unrest grew intolerable. 

She was undecided whether to go home against his 
wishes, or to remain, and consulted the daily paper anx- 
iously, as though seeking for something which she feared 
to find. ♦ 

One day her mother came in and found her sense- 
less upon the floor, the Berlin newspaper which she 
had been reading lying beside her. It was some time 
before she revived, and the moment consciousness re- 
turned she wept bitterly. 

Frau Erlau put her in care of Frieda and left the 
room a moment, taking the paper with her, which she 
hastily scanned. In a prominent place was an account 
of a great horse-race in which Lieut, von Norden figured 
conspicuously as a heavy loser. 

“I must go home,'' said Margaret with decision 
that admitted of no opposition. “It is better for 
Gustav that I should be there." 

It was with heavy hearts that her parents helped her 
off. It was a sad parting, and Margaret could not help 
comparing it with the first time she had left the old Nest, 
which appeared so monotonous and dreary to her, to 
go out in the gay world of society for which she had 
yearned, and which had proved so disappointing. 


A VISIT TO BERLIN. 


107 


She wrote frequently after her return to Berlin, 
mostly of little Marie, saying nothing of her trials. 
Dr. Erlau heard, however, from other sources, that von 
Norden was leading a wild life, was known as a great 
sporting man, kept high-priced horses, bet largely and 
recklessly, and sometimes won but oftener lost. 

He was made so anxious by the report that he 
could not rest until he had consulted with the com- 
mander of the regiment, when the report was fully con- 
firmed. 

‘'Your son-in-law is travelling a dangerous road,'' 
wrote he, “ but warnings appear to be of no avail. He 
is reckless and extravagant, and his gambling will bring 
him to poverty if something does not call a halt." 

Upon receiving this Dr. Erlau felt it his duty to go 
to Berlin to counsel von Norden, but his interference, as 
it was termed, was met with such anger and insolence 
as he had never imagined ; ending by von Norden com- 
manding him to leave his house, and forbidding Margaret 
to have any communication with her family. 

This was a bitter trial to all, and only the love and 
care for her little Marie made life endurable to Mar- 
garet. 

When the gay season came on, she was forced to 
leave her little one to the care of others while she went 
evening after evening to scenes of festivity because von 
Norden willed it, going many times when her whole 
delicate nature cried for rest and sleep, and her heart 
yearned to stay to care for her babe. 

Lieutenant von Norden had not forbidden letters. 


I08 THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 

and through those of her pious parents she was learning 
to more truly rely upon her Saviour for comfort and 
help to bear her cross ; through the storms of trial and 
anxiety she was becoming a truly humble, faithful Chris- 
tian, growing daily in grace and in knowledge of her 
Lord and Saviour. 


THE TROUBLES OF WAR. 


109 


CHAPTER VIII. 

THE TROUBLES OF WAR. 

Several months passed, and one morning Lieut, 
von Norden stood by the bedside of his sleeping infant 
gazing down upon it with tear-dimmed eyes. Marga- 
ret stood weeping beside him and his arm was about 
her. 

At that moment little Marie awoke, and von Norden 
stooped and took her up in his arms, but she shrank 
from him and held out her hands to her mother. 

‘^She is afraid of me; I have never tried to have 
her love me,'' said the father sadly. ‘‘Show her my 
picture, Margaret, when I am gone, and teach her, if 
you can, to love her absent father." 

“I will, I will," said Margaret tearfully. “You will 
see that she will recognize you and rejoice to see you 
when you return. ' ' 

“Give me one of her little curls to put with yours 
to wear upon my heart ; perhaps they will go to the 
grave with me." 

With tears falling freely Margaret granted his wish ; 
he placed it in his bosom, and at the moment the signal 
for departure sounded from without. 

“I must go," said he, embracing mother and 
child. “Now be my brave Margaret, a soldier's wife, 
and when the war is over, and I return, you, poor child. 


no 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


shall have a happier life than you have ever led at my 
side. Forgive me all the trouble I have caused you.'' 

'^Oh, don't say that," said Margaret weeping con- 
vulsively. ‘‘You have always had my love, Gustav, 
my first, my only love." 

“You will do as I said, Margaret," said he tender- 
ly: “go to your father's house as soon as you can, and 
take them my prayers for forgiveness. ' ' 

“I will, I will; and take with you their forgiveness 
and blessing, for I am sure you have both." 

Von Norden hurried away, and Margaret went to 
the window that commanded a view of the street to 
have a last look before he rode away with his company. 
He turned and looked up ; she tried to smile amid her 
fast-falling tears, and when the sound of horses' hoofs 
died away she returned to the nursery, laid little Marie 
in her cradle, and sank upon her knees beside it. 

While Margaret was weeping and praying in her 
beautiful home in Berlin there was also grief in the old 
house in Friehausen. 

“A telegram from Fritz," Dr. Erlau had said as he 
hurried in. “He has shouldered his musket and gone 
to the defence of the Fatherland, in response to the call 
of the authorities." 

“Oh, those terrible French !" said Frau Erlau burst- 
ing into tears, “how much misery they bring upon us !" 

Another telegram speedily followed the first. Eric 
was also on his way to the seat of war as surgeon, and 
Dr. Erlau and his wife felt that their cup of anxiety was 
full to overflowing. 


THE TROUBLES OF WAR. 


Ill 


Even in the few words of the telegrams the parents 
could see the different motives which actuated the bro- 
thers. 

Fritz was going from a faithful sense of duty, in de- 
fence of his country in its hour of need. Eric was going 
to achieve recognition for himself and to be in the hos- 
pitals with the great masters of the profession ; and the 
cause which was to bring them together was second in 
his thoughts, except as a means to an end. 

‘'In God we trust!'' was the comfort that came to 
the hearts of these devoted Christian parents during this 
sad time, and it comforted them as nothing else could 
have done. 

The same afternoon they had a great surprise and 
joy in seeing Margaret with her child and its nurse, 
and new life was infused into the old home by their 
arrival. 

Margaret had made all haste to obey her husband's 
parting injunction : had dispensed with the servants, 
who shed tears at parting with her ; had closed the 
house ; and the evening of the same day found her under 
her parents' roof She was thin and pale, but composed, 
and although her anxiety for her husband and brothers 
was always in mind, yet it was shared with her loved 
ones and was far easier to bear. 

The first letter that came from the absent soldiers 
was to Margaret from von Norden, and was the most 
thoughtful and tender she had ever received from him. 
In it was one to Dr. Erlau expressing gratitude that 
Margaret and his little Marie were in such a safe and 


I 12 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


good home, and imploring his forgiveness for his undu- 
tiful conduct. 

An earnest, manly spirit breathed through the epis- 
tle, giving promise of a changed and happier future for 
the young husband and wife. 

Dr. Erlau replied immediately, granting free and full 
pardon and assuring him of their happiness in receiving 
Margaret and the little one under the home-roof ; and 
the loving daughter grew almost Cheerful now that the 
gulf between her father and husband was bridged over. 

Every day the suspense grew keener, for all knew 
that the armies were upon the eve of battle, and all 
prayed for peace and bewailed the horrors of war. 

At length there came news, and hearts, homes and 
streets rejoiced over a great victory. Eriend grasped the 
hand of friend and congratulated each other and them- 
selves over the glorious news. 

In the evening Friehausen was illuminated, and the 
Erlau mansion was a blaze of light. The young people 
were filled with enthusiasm, and hoped that their loved 
ones had won distinction for their bravery on the battle- 
field. 

'^But I long for special news,'' said Frau Erlau to 
her husband. ^^Von Norden' s regiment was in the 
thick of the battle. I dread that something is wrong. ' ' 

'^We must not borrow trouble, wife," replied Dr. 
Erlau; ‘‘we must be hopeful and cheerful for Marga- 
ret's sake. Our cross in having two sons in the field is 
heavy, but not so heavy as hers — with a loved husband 
in addition to two loved brothers." 


THE TROUBLES OF WAR. 


II3 


At length a note was received from Eric. He was 
full of the importance attached to his services as a helper 
in the hospital, but no word in it of Fritz or von Nor- 
den. 

^'Here is a letter from Fritz,'' said Meta that even- 
ing, coming hastily in from the lawn where a messenger 
had given her the missive. ^ ‘ Such a miserable-looking 
letter !" 

^‘But from our son; thank God he is alive!" said 
Frau Erlau tearfully as she hastily opened it. 

The paper was a mere scrap and had been written 
upon with a pencil during a hurried march ; but it con- 
tained the happy news that Fritz had escaped unharmed 
in the terrible battle. 

‘^But not a word from Gustav 1" cried Margaret with 
pale lips. ‘^Oh, father, mother, why don't we have 
some word of him ?" 

^‘We are all in God's hands, my child," said her 
father. ^'News will come no doubt very soon, and we 
trust it will be good." 

''And dear Meta will not let us wait a moment for 
the mail," said Frau Erlau. 

That evening Margaret received a line from von Nor- 
den ; he had been in the heat of battle, but had come off 
unhurt. 

A glow of joy lighted up Margaret's sweet face, but 
in a moment it faded and tears fell from her eyes. 

"But what avail is it to hear this ?" she said ; "even 
while I am reading it the hand that penned it may be 
cold in death I" 

8 


1 14 THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 

must, as soldiers' wives and mothers, feel the 
comforting assurance that God is over all," said Frau 
Erlau ; "'there is no foundation to rest upon like our 
trust in him." 

A hospital had been improvised in Friehausen, and 
there many of the wounded from the first battle were 
brought ; and Dr. Erlau was one of the most faithful of 
surgeons, assisted by Prof. Frohman, whose health did 
not permit him to go with the troops as soldier. 

At home Frau Erlau and her daughters were busy 
from morning until night preparing lint and other neces- 
sities for the hospital, and Thea Turo, whose brothers 
were in the field, assisted. She passed much of her time 
at the Erlau house, for it was lonely for her in her own 
home, Madame Villimain having returned to France at 
the first news of the breaking out of war. 

A few days passed and news came of another great 
victory for the German army ; and amid the rejoicings 
in the Erlau household was deep gratitude to God that 
their loved ones had escaped without the slightest 
wound. 

It was Fritz who wrote, and he added to his long 
satisfactory letter the pleasing news that von Norden 
had won great praise for bravery, and had been pro- 
moted to the rank next above the one he had filled. 

Margaret had now a hope that the war was at an 
end. So certain did she appear to be of this that she 
grew cheerful and light-hearted, chatting with her sis- 
ters and Emmi and playing with little Marie, telling her 
that "Papa would soon be home from the war." 


THE TROUBLES OF WAR. II5 

The German army had pushed the French troops 
back, and von Norden with his regiment lay before 
Paris ; and Margaret not having received a letter for 
several days grew wretchedly anxious. 

^^The bürgermeister sent word that he wishes to see 
you, father,'' said she one morning as Dr. Erlau came in 
weary and sad from the hospital. 

''The burgermeister? What can he want of me? 
It has not been more than an hour since I saw him ; he 
must have some important matter on hand." 

He hurried away, oppressed by the thought that 
there had been another battle fought and his sons or von 
Norden had fallen victims. 

"I have bad news for you," said the bürgermeister 
the moment he appeared : "your son-in-law is wound- 
ed — they fear, mortally." 

"Tell me, is he dead?" said Dr. Erlau, turning very 
pale. 

"I think not; it was only a telegram, and said, 
'Von Norden badly wounded ; is at the hospital.' " 

"My poor, poor Margaret!" said Dr. Erlau with 
tears of pity in his eyes ; " how can I tell her this I" 

"If there is any way I can help you I hope you will 
claim my services," said the bürgermeister. 

Dr. Erlau pressed his hand and hurried away. He 
had intended to tell his wife and let her break the sad 
news to his daughter, but Margaret met him at the door 
with little Marie upon her arm. 

"See, grandpa," said she, "the little one has been 
writing a letter to her father ; look at the ink upon her 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY. 


Il6 

finger!” then noticing the look upon her father’s face 
she grew very pale. 

''Tell me, father, is it Gustav?” 

"He is badly wounded, my child,” replied he ten- 
derly. 

"Give me the telegram, father.” 

He gave it into her hands ; she glanced over it, and 
then allowed her father to lead her to a chair, where she 
sat dumb with despair, while he went to tell the sad 
news to the others. 

Margaret shed no tears, but, white to the lips, she 
listened absently to the sobs of her sisters and the com- 
forting words of her parents and the bürgermeister, who 
had followed him home hoping to be of some use. 

" I must go to Gustav,” said she ; " must go in the 
first train that leaves Friehausen.” 

"I don’t know how you can go, my love,” said Dr. 
Erlau anxiously. 

"But I must go, father. If he is dead I must bring 
him home : if suffering, my place is beside him.” 

The parents sympathized with this natural feeling, 
and knew it would be cruel to try to put a bar upon the 
undertaking unless it were an impossibility for her to go. 

"But you cannot go alone,” said her father, "and 
I cannot leave the poor wounded ones to go with 
you.” 

"I will go with her,” said Frau Erlau. 

"But I cannot think of letting two women go alone 
in the condition the country is in,” said Dr. Erlau anx- 
iously. 


THE TROUBLES OF WAR, II7 

‘'We will be safe/' said Margaret; “God will pro- 
tect us." 

“You are a brave soldier's wife," said the biirger- 
meister, “and I really think there is no danger to be 
feared. Prof. Frohman is now in the hospital there ; it 
was he who sent the telegram. I will send a message to 
him that you are coming, that he may be on the watch 
for your arrival. ' ' 

“Thank you, thank you, dear friend. This removes 
a great obstacle to the undertaking," said Dr. Erlau, 
grasping his hand. 

Margaret went to her room to pack the few articles 
she would need, and gave the charge of little Marie into 
the hands of Emmi and Thea. 

While Frau Erlau was making preparations for the 
journey Reika filled a basket with substantial food, and 
Dr. Erlau made arrangements for their comfort in all 
ways in his power. 

The first part of the journey was pleasant, and under 
different circumstances would have been enjoyed. But 
as they progressed toward their destination they saw the 
inconveniences of travelling in war times, and had it not 
been for Reika' s liberal providing they would have suf- 
fered from hunger and thirst. 

Part of the way they rode in baggage-wagons, and 
Margaret bore all privations without a murmur, her 
thoughts being only for the comfort of the dear mother 
who was standing so faithfully by her in this time of 
sorrow and anxiety. 

“Only five miles more," said she near the end of 


1 1 8 THE DOCTOR'S FAMIL K 

the third day; ^‘and what will we meet at the end of 
the journey 

^‘We will pray that God may in his great mercy 
spare his life, if it be his will ; if not, we will know it is 
all for the best,'' replied Frau Erlau. 

Their progress was so slow that Margaret felt tempt- 
ed many times to leave the wagon and walk, from ner- 
vous anxiety that she might be too late to see her hus- 
band alive. But her mother's soothing presence and 
counsel restrained her, and she realized that all her 
strength would be needed for what lay in store for her. 

At length the wagon came to a stop from having lost 
a wheel, and they were compelled to walk to a small inn 
not far away. 

‘‘You can get another conveyance for the short jour- 
ney to the hospital ; can you not ?" inquired Frau Erlau 
of the driver, before leaving him. 

“I Will try; but I think the chances are very poor. 
Everything on wheels is pressed into service." 

“But I must go on," said Margaret wringing her 
hands in despair. “I will go in an ambulance, or in 
anything that will take me. ' ' 

“You had better go to the inn and rest," said the 
man compassionately ; “standing here will only exhaust 
you and do no good. I will do the best I can to get a 
conveyance. ' ' 

Frau Erlau saw the wisdom of this ; they walked to 
the inn, were shown into a comfortable room where Mar- 
garet sank upon a couch and, worn out with anxiety and 
weariness, sank into a deep sleep. 


THE TROUBLES OF WAR. 1 19 

She was awakened after a time by hearing voices, 
and found that Frau Erlau had left the room. 

“Who is it, mother?'" she inquired when Frau Erlau 
came in, a look of satisfaction upon her face. 

“It is Prof. Frohman ; he is on his way to the hos- 
pital with comforts for the wounded, which he has col- 
lected in the neighborhood, and will take us in his 
wagon. " " 

Margaret received new strength on hearing this wel- 
come news. She was ready in a moment, and on the 
way heard the particulars of the battle in which von Nor- 
den had been wounded. 

“He was fighting bravely,"" said the professor; 
“many of his brother officers had fallen, and he was 
leading his men to victory, when he was struck in the 
breast by a bullet. The battle was raging over him, and 
his comrades dragged him from under the hoofs of the 
horses. "" 

“Is there any chance for his life?"" asked Margaret 
tremulously. 

“I hope so ; he was conscious and not suffering in- 
tensely when I left the hospital ; while there is life there 
is hope."" 

At length they reached the hospital, and hurried 
in. The attending physician was so much engaged that 
they waited for what seemed ages to Margaret before 
they could see him. 

“Is there any hope for him?"" inquired Frau 
Erlau. 

“None whatever of a cure, but he may linger for a 


120 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


time provided nothing is allowed to agitate him. He 
must not know of your arrival.'' 

Margaret pleaded to see him, promising to be com- 
posed, but he was firm in refusing ; so there was nothing 
to do but to leave for the quiet inn where Prof Froh- 
man had secured a room for them, its great advantage 
being that it was within a short walk of the hospital. 

Frau Erlau had been told that towards evening there 
would be a change of physicians, and soon after the 
hour she and Margaret made another application to see 
von Norden, hoping there would be a different opinion 
upon the subject. 

They were not disappointed in this ; the surgeon in- 
formed them that the young officer was praying that his 
wife be sent for, and he believed from his experience 
in such cases that it was better to allow him the gratifi- 
cation of seeing his loved ones than to distress him by 
denying him, and, as a trial, would tell him of the 
arrival of Frau Erlau, and give him permission to see 
her if he would promise not to agitate himself by talking. 

'‘There is a friend waiting to see you," said he, 
going to the bedside of von Norden, “and it depends 
upon yourself whether you can see that friend or not. 
Will you promise not to talk.?" 

The wounded man gave assent, and the surgeon con- 
ducted Frau Erlau into the ward. 

The sunken eyes of von Norden grew bright when he 
recognized her, and she, having had the consent of the 
surgeon, told him that Margaret was not far away. 

A weak smile was the answer, and he was about to 


I HE TROUBLES OF WAR. 


t2i 

speak when Frau Erlau put her finger upon her lip in 
token of silence and was about to leave the ward, but 
he looked so imploringly after her that she returned and 
took a seat at his bedside. 

The visit was found not to be injurious to the patient, 
and the next day Margaret was allowed to visit him. 
The surgeon feared she would exhibit emotion at sight 
of the great change in von Norden, but Margaret had 
learned self-control in the past ; she was sure of herself, 
and went quietly in, bent over his bed and kissed him, 
then sat down by him with an assuring smile. 

All her anguish and forebodings were kept back 
bravely, and her mother and the attendants were filled 
with admiration that the young wife could so command 
her feelings. In low soothing tones she told him of 
their little Marie, and all the others in the home nest, 
and his satisfied smile told her that he was cheered by 
hearing of them. 

Then he slept, and Margaret sat beside him mute 
and motionless, gazing with tear-dimmed eyes upon 
the helpless sufferer who had left her in the pride of 
his strength and manly beauty, his handsome uniform 
now exchanged for an invalid's robe. 

Toward evening Frau Erlau took her place by the 
wounded man, to remain through the most part of the 
night and allow Margaret to rest. 

She waited upon him tenderly, and the mother-love 
which von Norden had never known came to him in his 
last days, and he realized through her care what the love 
of a true mother could be. 


122 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


Several days passed, and though nursed faithfully by 
mother and daughter there was no change for the better 
in von Norden' s condition ; instead he was gradually 
growing weaker. 

Mother," whispered he one night as she sat by his 
bedside, must talk ; I must." 

‘‘Oh, my son," said she, “don't speak, I implore 
you ; the surgeon forbids it, and I must not as a faith- 
ful watcher allow you to injure yourself." 

“It will injure me far more to be repressed; he 
knows as well as I that my days are numbered ; I must 
tell you what is on my mind while I have strength. ' ' 

Frau Erlau saw that it was wiser to let him have 
his wish ; talking could do him no more harm than 
restraining him would do ; and charging him to speak 
low, that he might not exert himself more than necessary, 
she bent close to him to listen. 

“I have not led a good life," said he feebly, “and 
was growing worse all the time. Since I have lain here 
I have had time to reflect." 

“You have seen your failings, my son, that is the 
first step toward reformation," said she gently, thus 
giving him comfort and at the same time allowing him 
time to recruit his strength. 

“I do repent, mother; and oh, I pray God for 
pardon." 

“Your Saviour is always willing to receive you ; is 
always calling ; only trust him.'' 

A smile of joy passed over von Norden' s face and 
he clasped the hand which rested upon the blanket. 


THE TROUBLES OF WAR. 


123 


‘‘No one ever talked to me in this way. I thought 
the Saviour was so far away ; but he is very near. 
Mother, I must tell you that this is not such a sudden 
change as you think. Margaret's love and patience 
during my wild life set me to thinking, and before we 
parted I felt sincere repentance for all my evil conduct 
and had resolved to live a better life.'' 

“The angels in heaven rejoice over the repentance 
of a sinner," said Frau Erlau tenderly. 

“ I was much to blame in my treatment of you all, 
and see now what a treasure a good parent's house is 
to one so young and beautiful as Margaret. I hope 
you will take my wife and child and care for them as 
though I had never taken her from you. They will be 
absolutely dependent upon you for care and protection ; 
I have no near relatives in the world to whom I would 
entrust them." 

“You may rest assured that Margaret and Marie 
will be tenderly cared for," replied Frau Erlau. 

“My income, through racing, betting and other 
wild ways, is reduced to almost nothing, and I have 
made Margaret very unhappy. But she has been trained 
by Christian parents, and her sweet pious life was having 
its influence upon me." 

“You both needed the discipline. She loves you 
very devotedly. We hope you will yet live a long and 
useful life." 

“Don't give me any hope which you do not your- 
self entertain. I long to live to make amends by being 
a good husband and father, but if it be God's will that 


124 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


I must leave the earth I will not rebel ; no more than 
when my earthly king called me to battle for my Father- 
land/' 

‘'Now you must sleep/' said Frau Erlau, “or the 
doctors will blame me for allowing you to talk." 

“It has comforted and cheered me," said von Nor- 
den feebly, “and I feel as if I could sleep." 

She smoothed his pillow and passed her soft hand 
slowly up and down the arm lying next to her, knowing 
by experience how to soothe excited nerves ; and the re- 
sult was as she expected, he dropped into a sweet sleep 
which lasted some time. 

Time passed and von Norden lingered between life 
and death. Margaret would not leave his bedside, only 
when forced by her mother to take rest, and the wounded 
officer was never satisfied unless one or the other was 
by him. 

The war was still raging and more sufferers were 
brought to the hospital. 

One day a message was received that the Kaiser was 
intending to visit the wounded in the hospital that day. 
The report flew from cot to cot, and it seemed to give 
new life and strength to the sufferers that he sympathized 
with them. 

Margaret sat by the cot of her husband that after- 
noon, which was at the far end of a great room, when 
she heard a subdued stir betokening some important 
event. Looking up, she saw a tall stately form, sur- 
rounded by officers in splendid uniform and followed 
by physicians and nurses. 



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THE TROUBLES OF WAR, 


125 


Obeying the impulse of her timid retiring nature, 
Margaret would have fled, but there was no place, no 
time ; she arose and stepped to the foot of the cot, while 
von Norden' s handsome face flushed and his eyes grew 
bright at the sight of his beloved king. 

The Kaiser walked slowly from cot to cot, speak- 
ing words of praise for bravery, and comfort and hope, 
until he reached that of von Norden. One of the offi- 
cers gave his name and the Emperor took the wasted 
hand in his. 

must thank you for your bravery," said he after 
speaking some words of sympathy for his sufferings ; 

would much rather greet you upon the battle-field 
than here, but we cannot choose for ourselves ; but in 
the presence of your wife, who is so faithfully caring for 
you, I bestow upon you the Iron Cross as a token of 
my appreciation of your services;" and laying the 
decoration upon the bed the Kaiser smiled kindly upon 
him. 

Although at death's door von Norden was gratified 
at this token of appreciation from his sovereign, and 
as he could not speak to thank him for the honor he 
had conferred he glanced toward Margaret, who in 
a graceful manner thanked him in the name of her 
husband, and the Kaiser, nodding to both, passed on 
to gladden others by his presence and kind words. 

It was von Norden' s last earthly triumph; and as 
the Cross lay upon the cot where he could look upon it 
a smile now and then passed over his pale features, for 
he was comparing it with that other cross upon which 


126 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


he had fixed his hopes of promotion to another and 
happier place. 

Frau Erlau and Margaret had received news of 
Fritz ; he was alive and well, and although, owing 
to the disturbed state of the country, news from loved 
ones was very scarce and meagre, they rejoiced to hear 
of his safety. 

Frau Erlau was, however, miserably anxious in 
regard to Eric, of whom nothing had been heard, when 
one morning Prof. Frohman came in with an open letter 
in his hand, which he had just received from the biirger- 
meister at Friehausen, saying that Eric was ill of typhoid 
fever in a distant hospital. 

This was terribly trying news to the loving mother. 
Here was her loved daughter at the bedside of her dying 
husband, whom Frau Erlau felt she could not leave, 
there her equally loved son in perhaps the last stage of 
the dread disease. Only her faith and confidence in the 
goodness and protecting care of God kept her from de- 
spair in that trying time. 

The death angel dealt very tenderly with von Norden 
and with soft hand led him gently home. He departed 
as a little one drops asleep upon its mother's breast, and 
Margaret wept, but without bitterness, as she looked 
upon the features over which lay the smile of peace with 
God. 

Her mother and Prof. Frohman made all arrange- 
ments for the removal of the remains to Friehausen, 
Margaret's only wish being that her husband might lie 
in the beautiful cemetery near her home. 


THE TROUBLES OF WAR. 12 / 

Now that her care was no more needed for von 
Norden, Frau Erlau must first see Margaret safely in 
her father's house, then hurry to the bedside of Eric. 
But a letter from Dr. Erlau changed these plans so far 
as Eric was concerned, for he was in a fever hospital that 
admitted of no private nursing, all being done by a staff 
of trained nurses ; so nothing remained for her to do but 
to go home. 

The casket containing the remains of the young offi- 
cer, Gustav von Norden, was borne with military honors 
to the railway station, and the journey home was made 
much easier and quicker than the coming, and when 
Frau Erlau reached there and laid her weary head upon 
her husband's breast and wept, she felt that no trial 
would be too hard to bear were he only spared to her. 
She compared her lot with that of the poor young widow 
standing by, so pale, and wan, and desolate, and her 
heart bled for her. 

Emmi came in at that moment with Marie, but the 
little one turned away from the mother ; she had become 
a stranger to her. 

Frau Erlau found that Reika and the girls had con- 
ducted the housekeeping in a very satisfactory manner, 
and it was gratifying to her, for she longed to leave it 
for a time in their capable hands that she might help 
her husband in hospital work, giving to other women's 
sons the care which was given Eric in the foreign hos- 
pital. 

Margaret had no pressing duties to take her thoughts 
from her great grief — it lay like lead upon her heart. 


128 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY. 


She remained most of the time in her room, sometimes 
weeping, sometimes buried in thought. She made no 
mention of the war, scarcely making inquiry of her bro- 
thers, and her only walk was to the grave of her husband, 
where she remained many hours of each day. 

Her father noticed this abandonment to grief with 
real concern, and decided that something must be done 
or her health would be seriously impaired. He urged 
occupation, and at the suggestion of Frau Erlau secured 
sewing for her ; garments for the poor, given out by a 
benevolent society in Friehausen to which he was one of 
the contributors. It was a loathed task at first, but 
obedience to her father s wishes and anxiety to be of 
some use in the world caused her to persevere, and she 
gradually became interested in the work, yet had many, 
many sad hours. 

One day she was sitting alone in her room when the 
door opened and Frieda came in and stood gazing upon 
her with her beautiful sightless eyes. 

‘'May I stay a while with you, Margaret?'' said 

she. 

“lam cheerless company for you, Frieda ; you had 
better go to Emmi, she is always happy." 

“ I would rather be with people in trouble. I know 
how to sympathize with them." 

“You, child!" exclaimed Margaret in surprise. 
“You who are always cheerful and contented? I am 
grateful to God that you have no heart trouble as I 
have. ' ' 

“I no heart trouble? Oh, Margaret, have you 


THE TROUBLES OF IVAR. 


129 


never thought what it is to walk in darkness all the days 
of your life ; to have light and color and the faces of 
your loved ones shut out from your vision, to go useless 
through the world — with strength, but no ability to use 
it ? How often did I wish, when dear von Norden was 
ill, that God would take me and let him live, who had 
so much to live for ; and now I think the same in regard 
to Eric. ' ' 

'‘Poor Frieda!'' said Margaret putting her arm 
about the girl; "I never thought of your grieving. 
You always seem so happy." 

"It is all I can do," replied Frieda; "it is sad 
enough that I exist ; a useless incumbrance to human- 
ity." 

"Oh, Frieda, don't ^ay that I" said Margaret at 
length awakened to interest ; "we all love you ; what 
could we do without you ? Do n't say you are a useless 
burden ; think what I am." 

"But you need not be, dear Margaret," said Frieda 
gently. "It is a terrible trial to father and mother to 
see you so sad ; they grieve for you and they have so 
much else to bear, with so many of us to think of. ' ' 

"Oh, Frieda, I never thought of that. My selfish 
sorrow has completely blinded me to other people's 
trials. God helping me I will put it aside, so far as I 
can, and be the help they have a right to expect." 

"And you are not offended with me that I have 
spoken so plainly.?" said Frieda. 

"No, indeed; but thank you for it; tell me, dear 
Frieda, where to begin to be of use." 

9 


130 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY, 


"‘You could take more care of little Marie and let 
Emmi help Reika with the housework, or you could 
assist papa at the hospital so that mother could remain 
at home — which I know she would gladly do.’' 

The next day Margaret gladdened her parents by 
proposing that she should assist in nursing the wounded, 
and they gave consent freely that she should accompany 
her father on his first visit there for the day. After that 
time she went daily, performing every duty faithfully, 
and in this way found relief, and, in time, peace. 


AFTER THE STORM, 


I3I 


CHAPTER IX. 

AFTER THE STORM. 

The German army was victorious, and joy. filled all 
hearts at the return of peace to the loved Fatherland. 

In Berlin there was great rejoicing, and towns, vil- 
lages, and country neighborhoods were not behind-hand 
in congratulations over the happy event, and were pre- 
paring for the reception of the returning soldiers. 

Friehausen was no exception to the rule ; from all 
the surrounding country people were flocking in, and 
a crowd of eager spectators lined each side of the street 
through which the soldiers would pass, burdened with 
bouquets and wreaths of flowers to cast at the feet of 
the conquerors. 

Dr. Erlau' s house was on the line of march, but he 
and all his family, with the exception of Margaret and 
Frieda, came out on the street ; people making room 
for them out of genuine love and respect for their hon- 
ored physician. 

Heads crowded heads to catch a glimpse of loved 
ones ; mothers could scarcely restrain themselves from 
pressing through the crowd to grasp the hand of a loved 
son, and wives longed to greet husbands, and now and 
then a childish voice would cry There 's my papa!" 
The triumphant sound of fife and drum and the sight 
of the flags filled all hearts with enthusiasm ; they shook 
hands with each other in their joy that the color-bearers 


132 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


were at home again, and the terrible war a thing of the 
past. 

''There is Fritz ; our Fritz cried little Erna, who 
was held up above the crowd in the strong arms of Dr. 
Erlau, and the eyes of the returned soldier grew bright 
at seeing his loved ones. 

At length the troops reached the market-place and 
disbanded, and Dr. Erlau grasped the hand of his son 
with the pride of a happy father and the whole family 
escorted him home. Frau Erlau’s eyes filled with tears 
of gratitude that God had spared her son. That he 
had become an officer, with the title of lieutenant, was 
a source of pleasure to all, proving that he had not 
evaded duty in war any more than in peace. 

In the large quiet room back of the parlor of the 
Erlau home sat a pale, emaciated figure in whom it 
would have been difficult to recognize the once proud 
and handsome Eric. He had survived his long and 
dangerous illness, and the shadow of himself had, at 
his and his family’s urgent wish, been brought from 
the hospital to the old home. He was surrounded by 
every comfort which love and kindness could suggest, 
but his recovery was very slow. 

To him the festival in honor of the return of the 
soldiers was a fearful trial. When the war first was a 
certainty he had cherished dreams of the return, in 
which he would be a prominent figure, distinguished 
for bravery in services rendered his country and of 
rank entitling him to offer Thea Turo his hand without 
fear of repulse from her haughty, wealthy father. 


AFTER THE STORM. 


133 


Instead, he had returned a weak helpless invalid, 
baffled in all his expectations, an object of compassion, 
while Fritz, upon whom he had always looked down, 
was the hero of admiring crowds. 

Margaret had remained within doors during all this 
rejoicing, and her family did not attempt to change her 
wish, knowing that it would be a painful remembrance 
to her. 

will stay with you, Eric,'' said she ; would you 
like me to read to you ?" 

‘'No ; my nerves would not bear listening. I could 
not put my mind upon the subject." 

Margaret went out and brought in Marie, hoping 
that the prattle of the little one would amuse him ; but 
he said it wearied, so she took her back to Frieda. 

Eric was silent, sunk in his own thoughts, and his 
depression had its effect upon the sorrowing woman. 
She longed to visit her husband's grave, where owing to 
damp weather she had not been for several days. Eric 
was indifferent to her going or staying, so leaving him 
in the faithful care of Reika she bent her steps to the 
churchyard. 

It had been a secret source of regret to Margaret 
that by their extravagant way of living in Berlin she had 
no means to purchase a memorial for her husband's 
grave. This regret had been increasing daily, and on 
her way she resolved to speak to her father that evening, 
hoping that some arrangement could be made in regard 
to it. 

At length she reached the gate, opened it, and took 


134 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


the well-known path to the grave. But what a surprise 
awaited her. Did she dream, or was her sense of vision 
at fault? There stood at the head of her husband's 
grave a pure white marble monument upon which was 
inscribed the name and age of the one who slept beneath, 
and underneath it a representation of the Iron Cross. 
On the reverse were the words, '^Erected to the memory 
of a brave soldier by the officers of his corps." 

Margaret wept for gratitude at this token of affec- 
tion ; she realized that her husband was not forgotten 
by his comrades, though lying far from them, and kneel- 
ing by the grave she thanked God for this act of kind- 
ness and asked his blessing upon the donors. 

She now knew why her kind father had made excuse 
to keep her from visiting the churchyard the day before, 
and she blessed him for his goodness to her and her 
child and with somewhat lightened heart returned to the 
home circle in time to help welcome Fritz. 

It was indeed a joyous welcome which he received, 
and Frau Erlau could not help comparing it in her mind 
with the day that Fritz came in with his school-books 
under his arm, and a poor report in his hand, and crept 
to his room to weep over his failure. 

Then she went alone to pray that he might not 
become entirely discouraged ; now she was giving thanks 
to God that he had been preserved from death or 
wounds, and asking that he might not become proud 
of his advancement, but be kept humble and dependent 
upon his Heavenly Father’s guiding hand. 

The whole family clustered about him, and Reika 


AFTER THE STORM. 


135 


wiping her hand with her apron to grasp the one Fritz 
held out to her, said, with tears of delight in her eyes, 
'^Now you all see that I was right, for Fritz is the best 
one of you all/' 

‘‘I haven't forgotten that you always held up for 
me," laughed Fritz, ^‘and after a while I will pay you 
a visit in the kitchen, and, if there are any aged^r invalid 
locks or bolts, remember I am a good doctor." 

'‘Our children are all good," remarked Reika de- 
lightedly as she took her way back to her own realm, 
"but Fritz is the best. I guess nobody is ashamed now 
that he is not a great scholar. He always brings new 
life into the house." 

"Where is Eric?" inquired Fritz. "I must go to 
see him immediately." 

"He is in there," said Frau Erlau, tears coming to 
her eyes ; "you must expect to see him much changed." 

Fritz opened the door softly and went in, followed 
by Dr. and Frau Erlau. He greeted his brother affec- 
tionately, while trying to hide the shock his appearance 
gave him. 

"There is a vast difference between us now," said 
Eric peevishly ; "your brilliancy almost dazzles me." 

"Forgive me that I startled you by coming in so 
abruptly," said Fritz compassionately. 

"My nerves are not so weak as you would have it 
appear," replied Eric sarcastically. "I suppose you are 
looking forward to the position of field-marshal, now 
that you have had a taste of military glory." 

Dr. Erlau left the room, as he always did when Eric 


136 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


spoke in that bitter tone, and Frau Erlau was grieved 
that not even the long illness and nearness to death 
could take the envy and selfishness from his heart. 

Fritz alone showed no sign of resentment, but talked 
in his usual cheery way until something like serenity 
came to Eric, and his mother could not but admire the 
patience and gentleness with which he listened to his 
brother’s questions and complainings, although it was 
long past the dinner hour, and he was hungry and 
thirsty, having travelled many miles, yet was glad that 
Eric was interested in something besides his own trou- 
bles. 

Reika did her best to have a savory supper for the 
returned soldier, to which he did full justice, and Mar- 
garet was cheerfuller than she had been at any time since 
her bereavement, being anxious that nothing should mar 
the joy of his return. 

Fritz spent the greater part of the evening in his bro- 
ther’s room, and proved himself untiring in trying to 
cheer him. He kept his good humor in all Eric’s quer- 
ulous complainings, talked to him upon subjects which 
he thought would interest him, and was not in the least 
resentful when Eric told him that he would rather be by 
himself, but bade him a kind good-night and hoped he 
would sleep well. 

But the moment he left his brother’s room the smile 
faded, and he imparted to his parents his anxiety for 
his brother. 

''I can not understand it,” said Dr. Erlau; '^his 
fever has left him and there appears to be no part of his 


AFTER THE STORM. 


137 


body affected, yet he does not recover, nor give evidence 
of the vitality which one so young, and perfectly healthy 
as he has always been, should have/' 

I know very little about sickness, yet I cannot help 
thinking that his ailment is mental," said Fritz. 

‘‘I have thought so myself," replied his father, ‘'but 
what can trouble him ? If I did not know that he is the 
soul of honor I should think he had something on his 
conscience." 

“Oh, that cannot be," said Frau Erlau earnestly. 
“He is weak and miserable; and being full of energy, 
and ambitious as he is, the inactivity of a sick-bed frets 
him intolerably. I am sure that is all that can be 
thought of him." 

Fritz was not convinced ; he resolved to keep his 
eyes open, and if opportunity offered would question 
Eric in regard to himself, but of this he said nothing to 
his father and mother. 

“Does Frohman come here as often as ever he 
inquired. 

“Yes," replied his mother, “since his mother died 
he is very lonely, and he is like a son in our house." 

Fritz gave a low whistle of satisfaction. 

“No wonder, when there are several pretty girls in 
the house ; which one does he appear to fancy ?" 

“Oh, Meta, I suppose, although he is equally friend- 
ly with Emmi. I only suggest Metu because she is 
such a bookworm, and her fingers are always colored 
by ink." 

“That will suit Frohman, I suppose," laughed Fritz. 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 


138 

would rather have a wife who can cook and use the 
needle in place of the pen/' 

' ' She never cared for housework, ' ' sighed the moth- 
er. "'I have tried to teach her and to interest her in it 
but it was of no use." 

‘‘She can argue like a lawyer, and lecture like a 
professor," said Fritz, “but I would prefer not to be 
her guest at meal time if I happened to be very hun- 
gry." 

Amid the rejoicings for the return of the soldiers, 
and the hospitality that abounded. Councillor Turo was 
not found wanting. He made an entertainment for his 
sons and Fritz, to which the Erlau family were invited. 

Owing to the recent death in the family Dr. and 
Frau Erlau were intending to decline the invitation for 
all but Fritz, for whom the entertainment was partly 
made, and who of course could not decline ; but Mar- 
garet begged them not to deny Meta and Emmi the 
pleasure of meeting with other young people, when their 
remaining away could benefit no one. 

“ But your father and I agree that it appears neglect- 
ful of your feelings for us to accept the invitation to 
a company." 

“It is not a party, mother, but just a family meeting 
to celebrate the return of our dear ones. You have all 
had so much sadness for my sake that I long that some 
brightness should xorne into your lives." 

So the invitation was accepted and Meta and Emmi 
were delighted, and their thoughts were fixed upon their 
costumes for the evening, and in this also Margaret came 


AFTER THE STORM. 13g 

to the rescue, for owing to the many demands upon the 
family exchequer their wardrobe was very meagre. 

''Come to my room, girls,'' said she, as she heard 
them discussing ways and means. "I will unpack my 
trunks and you can have choice of any and all that they 
contain." 

" Oh, you dear good sister !" said Emmi rapturously; 
"we were thinking of your beautiful white dresses, and 
wishing we could borrow them." 

"Not borrow, dear, they are yours, and anything else 
I have that you wish." 

Frau Erlau was as much gratified by Margaret's 
thoughtfulness as were Meta and Emrni, not only be- 
cause it relieved her mind of a care but it proved that, 
through trials, Margaret was becoming more unselfish 
and companionable every day. She had been tried in 
the furnace of affliction and was becoming pure gold. 

Although Councillor Turo's two sons were returned 
soldiers Fritz Erlau was the hero of the hour, being 
beloved by all who knew him, for his own kindly na- 
ture as well as for his brave services in behalf of the 
Fatherland. 

It was a subject of regret to all that Eric was not 
among them, and to none more than Thea. She performed 
the part of hostess in her usual graceful manner, making 
all feel that they had her especial attention and were 
heartily welcome. Fritz was her escort when the com- 
pany took a sail upon the lake in the councillor's grounds, 
and later to the refreshment tables under the trees which 
were brilliant with Chinese lanterns. The subject of 


140 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


their conversation was principally Eric, always led by 
Fritz, for he hoped to obtain some impression as to her 
feeling toward his brother, fearing that her indifference 
to him was the cause of his trouble. 

Fritz had the highest regard and respect for Thea, 
confirmed by long acquaintance. He admired her 
gentle, modest manner, her unselfish regard for the 
pleasures of others, and- her devotion to the happiness 
of her father and brothers. It pleased him that she 
listened with interest to all that concerned Eric, and he 
resolved to tell him all, and hoped it would cheer and 
comfort. 

The festival was over, the guests departed, and the 
lights were extinguished. Thea had sent the weary ser- 
vants to rest, and going to her room she sat down by 
the window which looked toward the Erlau home. 

She saw each room of the great house suddenly 
illuminated after its owner entered ; then she saw each 
extinguished until only one feeble light was left burning 
in the room of Eric. 

Her thoughts were upon the words of Fritz, that 
Eric was unhappy and he knew not the cause. She 
pondered long over this ; wondering what the beloved 
son of an honored family, the successful surgeon, the 
handsome, highly educated young man could have to 
cause unhappiness sufficient to retard recovery to his 
former perfect health. 

She felt so powerless to help or comfort, so hopeless 
of ever being nearer to one who had appeared coldly 
indifferent to her. 


AFTER THE STORM. I4I 

But her heart turned to the One who never slumbers 
nor sleeps, whose ear is never deaf to the sorrows of 
his children. He would hear her prayer for him ; and 
kneeling by the bedside she implored her Heavenly Fa- 
ther to give Eric peace, let the cause of his unhappi- 
ness be what it might, and in seeking comfort for him 
she received it for herself, and serene and content she 
sought her rest. 

When the Erlau family reached home the parents 
went immediately to Eric's room to see if he were 
made comfortable for the night, and the same mo- 
ment Margaret glided out to speak a word to Fritz. 

^‘Eric has been miserably restless and feverish," 
said she in a whisper. 

'‘I will stay with him the rest of the night, sister, 
if he will let me," replied Fritz in the same tone, and 
laying aside cap and sabre he went into his brother's 
room. 

It was a great change from the festive scene he had 
just left : the single night-lamp with the brilliant illu- 
minations of the councillor's residence, the pallid face 
and weak voice of Eric with the smiles and merry chat 
of the happy company, the silence with the sweet notes 
of the band. 

The young officer sat down by the bedside and 
took Eric’s hand in his, but it was quickly withdrawn. 

''Thea sent her kindest regards, dear Eric, and 
prays for your speedy recovery," said he. 

Eric remained silent, and Fritz was at a loss what 
to say to comfort him. 


142 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 


Do you feel any pain this evening, Eric?’' asked he 
in a tone of sincere sympathy. 

^ ‘ What is it to you, or to any one, that I am miser- 
able?” replied his brother. The happy and fortunate 
can well afford to give a few kind words. I suppose 
Thea was very proud of her returned soldier, mainly be- 
cause he is an officer. ’ ’ 

'^If she were, it was only for your sake,” replied 
Fritz. She has a kind and faithful heart, is a true lady 
in every sense of the word, therefore has too much 
delicacy and refinement to say a word to lead me to 
think she cares for you ; but I feel sure in my own 
mind that all rests with you to make her your wife, so 
far as her own consent is concerned.” 

With me !” cried Eric bitterly. Great comfort you 
are trying to offer to a miserable creature like me. It 
is a happy fate, to lie here weak and helpless and know 
that others are enjoying all life’s benefits and pleasures !” 

Certainly it is hard to bear, but I believe your 
recovery lies entirely with yourself You must get 
rid of the mind trouble that is robbing you of strength. ’ ’ 

'‘What do you know of my mind trouble?” ques- 
tioned Eric angrily. " Who sent you to preach to me ?” 

"No one ; but let us speak as brother to brother,” 
said Fritz tenderly. " If you could look into my heart 
you would see that it is faithful to you. I grieve for 
your sorrow, let it be from what cause it may. What 
is it, Eric ? Speak to me about it. Have confidence in 
me : let me help you bear the burden that is too heavy 
for you to bear alone. ’ ’ 


AFTER THE STORM. 


143 


do you wish to pry into my affairs?'' cried 
Eric hotly. ' ' I won' t be questioned by you, or any one. ' ' 

‘‘Eric, how can you speak thus to me, your only 
brother ! To-morrow I go from here ; do not let me 
go with a heavy heart because of you. Take a friend 
into your confidence ; and who could be more faithful 
than your brother ? You will feel so much better, and 
I know I can help you." 

Eric shrank back upon the pillow and covered his 
face with his hands. 

“I dare not tell you," said he; “you would betray 
me to the others." 

“Eric, you know how I have always looked up to 
you. I cannot believe, knowing you as I do, that 
guilt can be laid to your charge. It is only some little 
failing that your weakness has magnified into guilt. 
Let it be what it will, share the burden with me and 
it will lighten it for you, and perhaps together we can 
do away with it." 

“ Never !" said Eric. “Who can restore lost honor ; 
who can ever have respect for a thief?" 

“Eric, you are dreaming!" cried Fritz, while a chill 
of anguish thrilled him. 

“Would that I were dreaming or raving," said he; 
“but it is the fearful truth." 

The brothers remained silent for a time, Fritz pon- 
dering in his mind whether, after all, the statement was 
not merely a figment of the imagination caused by 
fever. 

“You shall know it all," said Eric breaking the 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


144 

silence. ‘‘God knows what it costs me to tell you, 
but the limit of endurance has been reached ; I cannot 
bear the torture any longer ; death or madness would 
be the result.'' 

With exact faithfulness he told his brother of his 
life during all the time he was absent from the home 
roof : of his apparent light-heartedness in the eyes of 
his fellow-students and his fashionable friends ; of the 
dark shadow of debt which enveloped him, brought 
about him by his self-seeking, his ambition and extrav- 
agance ; of his pleasures, which robbed him of his 
strength and his father of his hard-earned savings. He 
had denied himself nothing, while the whole family were 
stinted that he might mingle in scenes of festivity ; the 
hours being given to social pleasure that should have 
been given to study and rest. 

“I got into debt," continued he, “which I saw 
no way of liquidating, and it robbed me of peace." 

Eric paused from sheer inability to proceed, for 
weakness almost to exhaustion followed any excitement, 
and large drops of moisture stood upon his forehead. 

“Don't talk any more, Eric, at least until you 
have rest," said Fritz as he wiped away the moisture 
and gave him a refreshing glass of water; “we have 
plenty of time, no one will interrupt us. ' ’ 

“I must finish now or perhaps I will never have the 
courage to commence again," replied his brother, and 
he told of his taking the pearl necklace. 

“I may truly say that I have never had one happy 
moment since I placed it in the hands of the pawn- 


AFTER THE STORM. 145 

broker,” continued he, '‘it has lain upon my conscience 
like a leaden weight. That my honored, kind parents 
should have reared a thief has almost at times been a 
thought too bitter for me, and it has driven me to the 
verge of despair.” 

Fritz was silent ; he judged it better not to interrupt 
the narrative. 

"I had hopes to earn enough from my profession 
and my literary work to redeem the necklace without 
the loss ever being discovered, but disappointment 
after disappointment followed. I seemed to be hedged 
about by difficulties and obstructions, and every avenue 
seemed closed. Moreover, I knew not at what moment 
the loss would be discovered at home, nor what terrible 
effect it might have upon our mother should it be dis- 
covered. When the war broke out I felt it to be my 
last hope, and the result was an attack of illness which 
has robbed me of what little strength I possessed.” 

He had persisted with his feeble voice in finishing 
the miserable story, then almost fainting from exhaus- 
tion he waited for Fritz to reply, but his brother was 
buried in thought. 

'' Speak to me, Fritz, if only to tell me you despise 
me; you cannot be more severe upon me than I am 
upon myself” 

‘‘I am only laying plans,” said Fritz clasping his 
brothers hand reassuringly. "You have made a mis- 
step, what remains is to make amends. You have 
repented, and the result must be atonement.” 

"Repentance!” said Eric. "Every breath I have 
10 


146 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


drawn since has been one of repentance to God and 
my fellow-man for my misdeed. Day and night my guilt 
was before me, until death would have been a welcome 
release. Sometimes Satan was on hand to offer false 
comfort, and I would reason that the necklace was 
mine and I had a right to use it as I chose. But the 
thought would not stay by me ; it was only a momen- 
tary comfort.'" 

‘'You have a long and useful life before you, dear 
Eric," said Fritz, cheerfully, “and will have ample 
opportunity to make up for this one false step. ' ' 

“What have I to hope for in life with this burden 
of guilt and debt V ' 

“But we must counsel together to rid you of both, 
and I think I see the way very clear. You know that 
I have few needs, therefore my expenses have been very 
light. My savings have amounted to considerably more 
than will redeem the necklace and pay your debt. You 
are freely and heartily welcome to it all." 

“What you have earned by industry and saved by 
frugality I am to take to pay my miserable debts !" 
cried Eric bitterly. “Truly this would be of a piece 
with all my meanness and selfishness." 

“I could never use it for abetter purpose than to 
restore you to health and happiness. After you get well 
you can soon repay me for it ; and, if you never see the 
time to spare me the money, I shall not be the worse of 
it a hundred years hence." 

Fritz said this from his heart, and Eric had not 
known him all hts life to doubt him. As the traveler in 


AFTER THE STORM. 


147 


the desert, dying of thirst, sees an oasis with shade and 
a fountain of cool water, so Eric rejoiced at this way 
of deliverance. Then his face clouded again. 

Fritz, if I accept your generous offer, and the 
necklace is redeemed, yet my guilt remains the same. 
My honor was and remains stained. In my own eyes, 
if notin others', I am a thief" 

‘^God, who reads all hearts, knows that you have 
bitterly repented ; we will ask him to forgive you and 
give you his peace," and kneeling by the bedside Fritz 
prayed for his brother. 

"'Oh, Fritz," cried Eric when he rose from his 
knees, '^now I can realize what God is to a sinful 
creature, when I see you, whom I have always treated 
with coldness and want of appreciation, so forgiving 
and kind. My whole life shall be an effort to be a 
better man, one worthy to be your brother." 

Like a tender mother Fritz smoothed his brother's 
pillow, gave him a refreshing drink, and bade him sleep 
while he sat by and watched. 

''No, Fritz, you must not sit by me. The bed is 
wide and comforable, share it with me and we will 
both sleep. I have not felt for years that I could close 
my eyes in peace. Thank God for his great mercy to 
me !" 

Fritz obeyed ; and extinguishing the night lamp he 
lay down beside his brother and both slept until the 
beams of the rising sun awoke them to another day. 


148 


THE DOCTOR’S FAMILY, 


CHAPTER X. 

LIGHTS AND SHADOWS. 

Fritz never did anything by halves ; he did not rest 
until he had paid a visit to Berlin, taken his money 
from the bank, redeemed the necklace, and put it in 
the hands of Eric. 

To do this it was necessary to remain a day longer 
from his business in London, but this was immaterial, 
as no particular time was set for his return. 

^‘Now, dear Fritz, if you can get the necklace back 
into its casket I shall be all my life indebted for your 
goodness to me,'' said Eric. Do you think you can 
do so without being observed?" 

Nothing is easier. I shall go to the linen-room 
when I know that the family are in other parts of the 
house, get the key from the basket, unlock the alcove 
closet, replace the necklace, and come back in less than 
five minutes and tell you that all is safe." 

Do n't think that I am imposing this upon you 
without good reason," said Eric, '‘but I don't think 
I could ever take it back without betraying myself, even 
if much stronger than I am now. After a time I shall 
tell father and mother the whole story." 

"But is there any need of that, dear Eric? You 
have confessed to God, have repented bitterly, and 
feel that you have been forgiven, why need you give 


LIGHTS AND SHAD O IVS. 1 49 

our parents the pain of knowing what you have suf- 
fered 

did not look at that side of the question; but 
at all events I will not tell them until I am on my feet 
again, and a better son to them than I ^have ever been. 
But I feel that I must tell them sometime.'' 

^'You must be guided by your conscience in this 
matter ; no doubt it will guide you in the right way." 

The next day Fritz laid aside his uniform, bade his 
family an affectionate good-by, and set out for London, 
and his first letter home bore the news of a pleasant 
surprise which his employer had prepared for him. 
This was the establishing of a branch factory in Berlin 
of which Fritz was to be manager, at a liberal salary. 

The Erlau family rejoiced over , this piece of good 
news, and none more than Eric. Since the visit of 
Fritz he had been growing stronger rapidly, and to the 
surprise and pleasure of his family was out in a few 
days. 

“It is all Fritz," said old Reika, shaking her head 
earnestly. “That blessed boy never goes anywhere with- 
out giving sunshine to everybody. I knew, the minute 
he set foot over the doorstep, that Dr. Eric would get 
better." 

“Reika is right," commented Meta to Emmi. 
“There has been a great change in Eric since Fritz 
sat up that night with him. He has lost that haughty, 
sarcastic manner he used to have, and is so gentle and 
kind that it is a real pleasure to be with him." 

“Yes, it all comes through Fritz ; no one can be in 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 


150 

his company without being cheered. Eric is a Christian, 
and I believe strives to live up to his profession, but 
he looks on the dark side of everything. He makes 
hard work of all he undertakes, and seems never satis- 
fied with himself. While he is always striving for the 
unattainable, happy Fritz takes the world as it comes, 
and helps others to do the same.'' 

Minerva is still acquiring wisdom," said Eric one 
day, as Meta was poring over her Greek lesson. She 
surely will win the laurel wreath, but oh, the puddings 
and pies that will suffer because of her learning !" 

All laughed, and Frau Erlau was gratified that his 
jesting had not the satirical tone it once had, but 
Meta did not take it kindly ; she had no affinity with 
culinary work, and, on the other hand, was sensitive in 
regard to having her fondness for learning commented 
upon. 

^‘1 wish she would take to housework," remarked 
Frau Erlau to Margaret, her confidant and counsellor 
upon all occasions. '^All women should know how to 
manage a house, and I think the signs look very favora- 
able for Meta having a home of her own." 

‘‘You mean with Prof. Frohman, mother. Do you 
know, I am beginning to think that Emmi is the object 
of his coming here so often." 

“She would make him or any one an excellent 
wife," said the mother in a slightly disappointed tone. 
“ I do hope, if Emmi is the object of his choice, that 
Meta knows it and will not allow herself to become 
attached to him. He is an honorable, upright man, 


LIGHTS AND SHADO WS, I 5 I 

and would be the very last to make the least effort to 
win the affections of a girl whom he does not love, 
and Meta is so absorbed in study that perhaps she has 
never thought of him in any light but as a friend of 
the family/' 

''I hope not," replied Margaret, but a shadow gath- 
ered upon her fair face as she spoke. She had noticed 
little things that made her fear that Meta had thought 
of him, but she did not wish to speak of it, not being 
sure. 

“But let this be as it may," said Frau Erlau, re- 
turning to the subject which had suggested the conver- 
sation, “I wish she would take to housework." 

“Knowledge will come with the necessity for it," 
replied Margaret consolingly. 

“ But necessity is sometimes a severe teacher ; waste, 
weariness and discouragement follow in the wake of 
ignorance. ' ' 

It was a wonder to all to see with what rapidity Eric 
recovered his strength. He was soon able to resume his 
professional duties and, to the delight of Dr. Erlau and 
the whole family, proposed remaining in Friehausen as a 
partner with his father. 

His sisters found in him an agreeable helper in all 
merry-makings, and Dr. Erlau seemed to have grown 
years younger, now that he had such a substantial de- 
pendence as Eric. All this was told to Fritz by letter, 
and word of mouth when he visited them, and his gen- 
erous heart rejoiced that all were so happy over the great 
change in the elder brother. 


152 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY. 


One morning Margaret and her little daughter had 
returned from a visit to von Norden' s grave .when Eric 
met them at the door. 

'‘You look happy, Eric, as though you had some- 
thing to please you." 

"So I have, little sister. I have just come from the 
hospital, and the ball which wx have been trying for so 
long to extract from soldier Beran was to-day removed 
successfully. We believe he will get well." 

"I am glad for his sake and yours. It is a great 
credit to perform such a feat of skill." 

" The credit is mostly due to father. Oh, Margaret, 
you cannot realize what a joy it is to me to be in prac- 
tice with him i His rich experience is a treasure to me." 

‘ ' The favor is not all on your side, Eric ; father is 
glad to know the new methods. It is a life-long wish 
of his gratified, to have his eldest son associated with 
him in the profession. He looks ten years younger." 

"I often regret my obstinate blindness in refusing to 
come to Friehausen as soon as I graduated. I don't 
know how father could be so forgiving of my insolent 
denial of his request when he furnished all the means to 
give me a thorough medical education without my lift- 
ing a finger to help ; instead, kept him toiling and har- 
assed by anxiety to keep me in spending-money. It 
seems fo me that the devotion of my whole life can 
never repay him for his goodness to me." 

"You did not think there was room in The Nest for 
you ; but you see there is, and also for a young Frau 
Doctor," said Margaret archly. 


LIGHTS AND SHADOWS. I $ 3 

"^Oh, I must not think of that/' said Eric, redden- 
ing. 

''Why not.?" questioned his sister. "Thea is a 
noble girl, a useful, consistent Christian. She is a faith- 
ful daughter and sister, and will make an excellent 
wife." 

"I am hiding from Else," said Erna, rushing into 
the room at that moment; "we are playing hide-and- 
seek, and 'she is hunting for me." 

Eric caught her playfully, and held her in his strong 
arms. 

"Let me go!" said she, struggling; "Else will 
come in and find me." 

He released her, but too late ; Else came in, her 
hand on her heart, and panting for breath. 

"You must not run so fast. Else," said her brother 
seriously. "See, you are almost exhausted. Come out 
of the draught ; you are too warm to stay a moment in 
it. Play some quieter game, Erna ; Else cannot run as 
you do." 

The child promised, and, taking the hand of Else, 
she went to the garden with her, and soon their merry 
voices proved that a quieter game was equally appreci- 
ated. 

"Else is a care on my mind," said Eric when they 
were again alone ; "she is an extremely delicate child." 

"She has always appeared healthy; she has never 
had an attack of illness. ' ' 

"No; but she has but little vitality, and must be 
guarded carefully from risk of contracting disease of any 


154 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


kind. She could not withstand any shock to her sys- 
tem. Are you going to the hospital this morning, Mar- 
garet V 

'‘No; there is no especial need for me, so I will 
sit by little Marie while she takes her sleep. But where 
has she gone V ’ 

"To listen to Frieda play and sing, I think. Her 
aunt Frieda is her idol.'' 

They followed the tones and stood listening* as Frieda 
with a master hand played an accompaniment to one of 
her mother' s favorite songs, and sang it in a sweet, plain- 
tive voice. 

"Poor child !" thought Eric; "music is nearly her 
only pleasure." 

' ' Is there any one in the garden except Else and 
Erna.?" he asked of Reika as she came through the 
corridor. 

"No one but Meta ; she has gone out there with an 
armload of books," and Reika' s sniff of disapproval of 
learned women amused Eric and Margaret. She smiled 
and he laughed outright. 

Meta was now deep in- mathematics, and having 
come to a problem which she could not solve had, the 
evening before, asked the assistance of Prof Frohman. 

"Certainly I will assist you," said he kindly, "but 
don't expect to fully comprehend it. It is a study too 
difficult for women." 

These words had humiliated Meta, proving that the 
professor did not give her credit for superior intelligence, 
credit which she coveted above all other praise. She 


LIGHTS AND SHADOWS. 


155 


was piqued also into trying to prove to him that he was 
mistaken, and she pored over the problem, trying to 
master its intricacies and surprise him by the fact that 
she had accomplished it without help. 

For the advancement of this scheme she sought the 
summer-house in the garden, intending to sit in the 
veranda which surrounded it, where she would await 
his coming. But the voices of the children, and the 
song of birds attracted her attention, and she must 
work ; so she took up her books and went within. 

But in spite of her resolution she gave herself up to 
revery. Her thoughts were upon Prof Frohman and 
his life-work. She was glad that she had devoted so 
much time to study, reflecting upon the advantage it 
would be when she was his wife. She could assist him 
in teaching, could be his counsellor and helper in all 
things for the improvement of the minds of those in- 
trusted to their care ; would be a help-meet indeed. 

The sound of approaching footsteps and the tones 
of voices in earnest conversation disturbed her reflection, 
and looking from the window — the dense foliage of a 
vine shading her from view — she saw Prof Frohman and 
Emmi walk slowly past. 

‘‘I would have thought that Meta, with her knowl- 
edge of books, would have been the one you would 
have chosen,'' Emmi was saying. 

‘^No ; I have to live too much among grammars and 
dictionaries," replied he with a light laugh ; and Meta, 
who heard, pressed her hand upon her heart to still its 
rapid beating. 


156 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


Fraulein Meta is a fine girl and intelligent/' he 
continued, ''but I want rest from books when out 
of the class-rooms. Moreover she is much too fond of 
study to think of having a husband and the care of a 
house, so your surmise, darling, was incorrect in every 
particular." 

‘''Like seeks like,’ so I have often heard," said 
Emmi. "One would suppose that one so highly educa- 
ted as Meta w^ould be a help to you, and far more com- 
pany than one like myself" 

"I do not need the help ; and when I wish scientific 
discussion I will seek the company of men. So now, 
that point settled, we will seek your good foster-parents 
and ask their blessing upon our betrothal." 

They passed out of hearing, and Meta gazed upon 
them from the window in dumb anguish of mind. In 
one short hour the face of nature seemed changed to 
her ; what had been a beautiful, a happy world, was 
now a desert, trackless, pathless, upon which she wan- 
dered desolate, solitary, miserable. 

Her first feeling was of bitterness towards Emmi, who 
had robbed her of all she held most dear ; then toward 
Frohman, who had been false and deceptive in his man- 
ner in regard to her. 

But soon her innate sense of justice asserted itself 
Neither was to blame in the matter; both were entirely 
innocent of any wish or intention to mislead. If any 
one was to blame it was herself, in mistaking Frohman’ s 
friendly, brotherly demeanor for attachment. His ideal 
was a loving, domestic, home-loving wife ; not one who 


LIGHTS AND SHADOWS.^ 


157 


gave all her time to books to the exclusion of all woman- 
ly household duties. How often had her mother told 
her the same thing, though in perhaps different words ; 
had begged her to make the keeping of the home the 
main object, and books the recreation. Nor did Frau 
Erlau advise this knowing Prof. Frohman’s opinion 
on the subject, or for the sake of winning the opinion 
of any one, but for Meta's own good and happiness. 

Meta saw her error and was resolved to reform, and 
calling her latent strength of character to her aid she 
arose, gathered up her books, and went to the house. 

Margaret had been watching and waiting for her, 
and taking her hand she drew her into her own room. 

‘■'Sit down, dear Meta," said she, ''and let us chat 
a little while. I have something to tell you," then she 
halted from inability to select words that would be least 
likely to give pain. 

^'I think I know," replied Meta, forcing a smile: 
"we are to prepare for a wedding in the old house ; are 
we not V ' 

"Who told you asked Margaret, much relieved 
by her sister's tone. 

' ' I was in the garden, and heard part of the conver- 
sation without intending it." 

" Father is calling us," said Margaret ; "he wishes us 
to come to congratulate the betrothed couple." 

This was a bitter trial to Meta, but she bore it brave- 
ly ; and fortunately the children were so full of hilarity 
over the prospect of a wedding, and the whole family 
were so busily chatting over the coming event, that 


158 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


Meta almost felt it was done for her sake, so relieved 
did she feel. Only the mother was pale, and looked 
toward her anxiously when she entered, and Emmi's 
smile brightened joyously when Meta embraced her and 
congratulated her heartily. 

had thought that Meta would have been Froh- 
man's choice, they are both so fond of books,'' remarked 
Dr. Erlau that evening to his wife. ‘'But Emmi is like 
a daughter to us and deserves a good husband, as I am 
sure Frohman will be. Thank God that Meta does not 
take it to heart." 

Frau Erlau made no reply ; and when the family 
separated for the night she followed Meta to her room. 
She sat down beside the bed where her daughter had 
thrown herself, and pressed a kiss upon the hot fore- 
head, and as she did so noticed that the pillow was wet 
with tears. 

“God be with you, my poor child," said she ten- 
derly; “only he can help you in this heavy trial which 
you must endure. Yet it will, I hope, be some comfort 
to you to know that you have your mother’s earnest 
sympathy. ' ' 

Meta was silent ; she wept softly as she took her 
mother's hand and kissed it. 

“If it is any comfort to you to know it, be assured, 
my darling, that no one suspects that you have any 
more than a sisterly interest in Prof Frohman. Dear, 
faithful Margaret feared it, but your manner this even- 
ing satisfied her that she was mistaken." 

“Oh, mother, how blessed I am in having you. 


LIGHTS AND SHADOWS. 1 59 

Suppose you were one who stood aloof from me in this 
humiliating trial V 

It is the fault of mother or daughter or both when 
they cannot converse upon this or any subject. Love 
and marriage are as natural as life and death, and in 
whom can a daughter have a truer friend and adviser 
than in her mother ? It grieved me that Margaret could 
not get her own consent to converse with me during her 
engagement to Lieut, von Norden, but placed such 
restraint upon us both. Dear Margaret ! She is much 
changed ; the discipline was severe, but she has come 
from the furnace of affliction a lovely, consistent Chris- 
tian.'' 

‘'Margaret could have spoken; she had nothing to 
be ashamed of; she was not humiliated by the thought 
that she loved unsought." 

‘ ‘ Nor have you any reason for being ashamed or 
humiliated. You have always acted in a modest, maid- 
enly manner, never putting yourself in Prof. Frohman's 
way or making any effort to attract his attention ; and 
you are not answerable for loving one who did not seek 
your love. God, who knows what is best, will make 
this trial a blessing to you, and in his own 'good time 
will give you peace." 

After her. mother had left her for the night Meta's 
pain returned with double force. Through the sleepless 
hours she fought a battle with herself and came off vic- 
torious. 

Not for the sake of winning a husband by her 
knowledge^of household ways did she resolve to supply 


l6o THE DOCTORS FAMILY. 

Emmi's place in the home, but that she might be the 
help to her mother and Reika which they had a right 
to expect, and to forget her troubles in active occupa- 
tion, making books her wxll-earned recreation. 

Towards morning she dropped into refreshing sleep, 
and when she mingled with the other members of the 
family in the morning not one, save the faithful mother, 
knew that under the cheerful manner lay a great sorrow. 

.The news of the coming marriage soon spread 
through the neighborhood — everyone surprised that the 
bride was Emmi instead of the learned Meta, but all 
agreeing that she would make an excellent wife. The 
students came in a body to congratulate their loved 
professor and wish him a long and happy life. 

The morning of the wedding was bright and beau- 
tiful, the flowers in the large garden back of the house 
were sending forth their richest odors, when Emmi 
stepped out upon the veranda overlooking it. She 
folded her hands in prayer, for Emmi's whole life had 
been gratitude to God who had given her, a poor 
orphan, this excellent home. 

The precepts and example of Dr. Erlau and his wife 
had their influence upon all who^ had knowledge of 
them, and those under the home-roof would take to 
their households the practical piety in which they had 
been reared. 

“You dear, faithful mother,'' said Emmi as Frau 
Erlau stepped from the low window and stood beside 
her, “how can I ever thank you for all your care oi 
me !" 


LIGHTS AND SHADO WS. l6l 

are well repaid/' replied Frau Erlau ; '^you 
have been a good daughter and will be a good wife. 
But, come ; Margaret and Meta are waiting to put upon 
the bride’s 'bonnie brown hair' the myrtle-wreath and 
bridal veil, and Prof. Frohman and the guests are al- 
ready in the parlor." 

Emmi obeyed, then all descended to the room where 
the pastor awaited them. Eric and Fritz came in, arm 
in arm ; the straight, elastic form of Eric contrasting 
with the equally tall but more robust form of Fritz. 

'^How proceeds the friendship between Thea and 
yourself.?" asked Fritz of his brother when, the festival 
over and the bridal couple off upon their wedding jour- 
ney, he was about to set out for Berlin. ‘‘I hope the 
next time I come it will be to your wedding." 

''All folly," said Eric reddening, "it looks well for 
a man in debt as I am to think of marriage with the 
only daughter of a wealthy man. The sum I owe you 
lies heavy upon my remembrance ; I fear you need it." 

"Never ! I consider it well invested, and hope you 
will not give it one anxious thought." 

"You are a faithful brother and have been my 
good angel. I have felt like a different person since the 
necklace is in its old resting-place and I have nothing 
to conceal from father and mother. They know the 
whole affair and of my sincere repentance; and have 
freely and fully forgiven me." 

"I suppose I should have done the same in regard 
to telling them. They are worthy of the whole confi- 
dence of their children, and I believe have it. We owe 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 


162 

a deep gratitude to God for such parents. But now tell 
me about Thea.'' 

have nothing to tell. The councillor would 
never think of giving his only daughter to a poor and 
unknown man.'’ 

'‘You can make the trial; promise me you will. 
To win a noble Christian woman as a partner through 
life is worth all the trouble and anxiety one can have. 
Be assured first that Thea cares for you, then boldly 
approach the councillor upon the subject.” 

Armed with this encouragement Eric went to see 
Thea that evening and upon his return had a word with 
Fritz. 

^'Dear, faithful brother,” said he, "congratulate 
me ; Thea is willing to pass life by my side.” 

"That is just as I supposed,” quoth Fritz; "all 
that remains is to get the Herr Councillor’s consent. 
He thinks only of the happiness of his children ; I 
don’t think you have any opposition to dread.” 

The next morning Eric had an audience with the 
councillor and returned flushed with indignation. 

" He treated me as if I were an adventurer asking 
for his purse, instead of an honorable man asking the 
hand of his daughter in marriage. He added that if he 
had imagined the possibility of my ever aspiring to 
Thea he would never have allowed any intimacy between 
the families, and he wished it henceforth to cease. Thea 
is lost to me.” 

"Not at all. Leave the affair with time ; that is the 
great soother of ruffled feelings and healer of difficulties.” 


LIGHTS AND SHADOWS. 163 

9 

‘*But my wounded pride! Can I ever forget the 
things the councillor said to me T ' 

Certainly. What he said in his anger he will be as 
anxious to forget as will you. It is not well for poor 
faulty human beings to hold enmity against each other. 
You must forgive and forget. The day will come when 
he will welcome you as a beloved son.'' 

He will never consent, and I shall never ask her to 
marry me against his wishes ; my case seems hopeless." 

‘'Thea would be the very last to disobey her father, 
and you are too honorable to wish her to do so ; yet it 
is my sincere conviction that Providence will aid you in 
this matter, as in all cases where one acts in obedience 
to his will." 

The same day Fritz left for Berlin and Eric accom- 
panied him. He longed to leave Friehausen for a time, 
and his father and mother agreed that it would be for 
the best. They had hoped to welcome Thea as a loved 
daughter of the house, but would encourage nothing 
against the wish of her father. They also saw the ad- 
vantage it would be to Eric to practise in the hospital 
in Berlin as assistant to a celebrated surgeon, as it would 
give him a fine opportunity to perfect his knowledge of 
that branch of his profession. 

Thea wrote a few lines to Margaret, saying that her 
father had forbidden her to visit the Erlau home, but 
her feelings were the same towards them and she hoped 
that they would never doubt her friendship, and to 
parents and daughters she sent her grateful thanks for 
all their kindness to her. 


164 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 


The councillor also wrote a note, but it was to Dr. 
Erlau, saying that he wished all communication to cease 
between the families, and added that he had chosen 
another physician for his family in case of illness. 

Dr. Erlau was deeply hurt at being treated thus by 
one whom he had looked upon as a true friend ; but 
Frau Erlau encouraged him with the adage, All's well 
that ends well." 


IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW. 


165 


CHAPTER XI. 

IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW. 

Thea was the same dutiful, affectionate daughter to 
the councillor as before his denial to Eric, but she 
missed the companionship of the Erlau family. 

Knowing this, the councillor went with her from one 
scene of festivity to another, without either of them 
having any real enjoyment in them. 

He too missed the companionship of his nearest 
neighbors, the Erlaus, and especially that of the genial 
old doctor, but his pride would not let him withdraw 
his commands. 

He had not forbidden Thea to visit Prof. Frohman 
and Emmi, so she made a call there very often, and 
through them could hear of all the Erlau family and 
Eric could hear of her. 

The winter that followed was a very dull one for 
her. The brothers were in distant cities, and her father 
was far from well. He had no relish for food, and his 
sleep was not refreshing. 

There was no snow that winter, but much dampness, 
and the spring set in with unusual heat. There was 
much sickness in the village and surrounding country, 
which finally became an epidemic. 

Dr. Erlau' s time was filled from morning until night, 
and he was compelled to send for Eric to assist him. 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


l66 

The summons was obeyed promptly, for it was a joy 
to Eric to be again in practice with his father except 
for the dark shadow which shrouded the old home : 
Else, the beloved of the family, had contracted the 
fever, and Eric understood the father’s anxiety owing 
to her frail constitution. 

Margaret and Meta shared the care of her with the 
mother, and Frieda and Erna were sent to Prof. Froh- 
man’s, hoping to thus keep them from contagion. 

Anxious days and nights followed, as Else hovered 
between life and death ; then the fever left her and all 
hoped that the danger was over. 

The councillor was terrorized over the ravages of 
the epidemic and would have left the neighborhood, 
but felt unable to take a journey. 

Thea had no fears for herself, but her father’s anxie- 
ty in regard to his own condition was intensified in 
her. 

‘‘If I only had my old physician I should not be 
so anxious,” said he one day. “ I am sure I am taking 
the fever, and a sight of Erlau’ s face would do me more 
good than all the medicine I take. He knows my 
constitution and is an honest man, and will tell me 
exactly what is the matter with me.” 

“You could send for him, father. I am sure he 
would come,” said Thea. 

“I don’t know about that. Doctors are a touchy 
set. He knows that I have had two or three different 
physicians since I discharged him for no fault of his.” 

“You could try him, father; he has a kind heart. 


IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW. 167 

and I am sure will not refuse to come to see an old 
friend like you/' 

''Ring the bell, then. I will send; he can but 
refuse. ' ' 

The messenger found the doctor by the bedside of 
Else, trying to count her feeble pulse. She appeared to 
be sleeping, but her parched lips whispered of what 
passed through her weakened mind : of birds and flow- 
ers, of Erna and their childhood's amusements, of her 
mother and the other dear ones of the household. 

"A message from Fraulein Thea," said Reika com- 
ing softly in at the open door and giving the note to 
Margaret, who with Meta stood at the foot of the bed 
while the mother knelt by the chair of Dr. Erlau and 
gently fanned the sick girl. 

Margaret passed it over to her father and Reika 
withdrew. 

"Thea writes in the name of her father ; he wishes 
me to come to see him," said Dr. Erlau after reading 
the note. 

' ' What will you do ; how can we spare you from 
here?" asked the mother anxiously. 

"I will stay as short a time as possible; but feel 
that I should go," and he hurried away. 

"Thank God that you have come !" said the coun- 
cillor when he entered. "I feel better already at the 
sight of your kind face." 

"Oh, I knew we would never get too far apart," 
replied Dr. Erlau clasping cordially the hand which the 
councillor held out. 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY. 


1 68 


‘‘I have the fever, of that I am sure; and know 
that I will never recover/’ 

‘'You have no fever,” replied the doctor. “Com- 
pose yourself, I beg of you.” 

“Then what ails me, doctor.? I am sick. I can 
neither eat nor sleep.” 

“It is an attack of your old complaint, aggravated 
by your anxiety in regard to the epidemic.” 

“Then I have no fever?” said the councillor much 
relieved. “I said you would do me good the moment 
you came.” 

“Do you wish me to prescribe for you, or did you 
only wish to see me in a neighborly way ?’ ’ 

“Oh, dear Erlau, I want you to take me in charge ; 
I have no faith in any other physician.” 

Dr. Erlau gave out medicine for him and left direc- 
tions for his treatment, bade him good-by, and left the 
room to go back to Else. 

“You have a difficult task before you, poor child,” 
said he to Thea, who followed him to the door. “I 
will engage a nurse for him if you will give me per- 
mission. But keep up your courage,” continued he, 
as he saw the color leave her face, “be a strong brave 
girl, and with God’s help we will bring him through.” 

She grasped his hand, her eyes dim with tears. 
“Don’t forget us, doctor,” said she; “we are like 
ships tossed by the waves, without you. ’ ’ 

“I will do all I can to help you,” said he kindly, 
then hurried away. 

Dr. Erlau at the councillor’s urgent request devoted 


rjv THE VALLEY OF THE SHAD O IV. 1 69 

all the time to him that he could spare from Else and 
his other patients. 

As the fever had left the sick girl Frau Erlau and 
her daughters hoped that she was out of danger; but 
the father and Eric were not deceived in her condition, 
and the change came very suddenly. Consciousness had 
returned, and she spoke to each one of the little group 
gathered about her. 

^‘Dear father, must I go?'' said she turning her 
fading eyes to him. do so want to stay with you 

all.'^ 

‘^Else, my dear, dear Else," said Dr. Erlau in deep 
emotion. 

‘‘When I am in heaven won't you all come? I 
want to see you all there. ’ ' 

“We will meet you there, my darling," said her 
mother tearfully. 

“I will take Gustav greetings from Margaret," said 
Else, turning her gaze upon her sister, who was unable 
to reply from emotion. 

“And Frieda," continued Else; “tell her that all 
will be light there, she will never be blind any more. 
Farewell ! My Saviour calls me ; he is with me. I am 
not afraid." 

A smile passed over the pale lips and the spirit of 
little Else was with her Saviour. 

“The saddest hour of our lives," said Dr. Erlau, 
taking the mother in his arms and laying her weary head 
upon his breast ; “but for Else all is bright. She has 
gone where all is peace, and for her there is no more 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY. 


170 

sorrow nor pain, for God has wiped away all tears from 
her eyes. ' ' . 

For the first time the dark-winged angel of death 
had entered the Erlau home and borne away a loved 
one, and through all the anguish of parting the dis- 
ciplined hearts of the parents could say through their 
tears, ‘^God is good ; he knows what is best. He has 
taken our tender one before life's trials and disappoint- 
ments came upon her. She is in heaven ; had she lived 
to the years of three score and ten she could have done 
no more, and has escaped much." 

Thus these Christian parents comforted each other 
and their children, and all bore themselves with com- 
posure through the trying ordeal of the funeral and the 
return to the house where her loved form would be seen 
no more forever. 

It seemed that dire necessity had kept Dr. Erlau 
upon his feet when he should have been in bed, for he 
was far from well. His nerves were unstrung from over- 
exertion and anxiety, and now that the excitement was 
over he was unable to keep up any longer. 

This was sad news for Councillor Turo and Thea. 

‘‘I might as well die at once as to be in the hands 
of those quacks that have been attending me," said 
he; ‘‘it is truly unfortunate for me that Erlau is sick 
at this time." 

“Would you like me to send to Berlin for a phy- 
sician, father ?" 

“What would be the use? He would come in a 
hurry and go in the same way, and the moment his 


IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW. 171 

back was turned would forget all about me. What I 
need is one who will make a study of my case and treat 
it accordingly.'' 

Thea was silent ; she had no other suggestion to 
offer ; and her father passed a restless day and night, 
and next morning was weak and nervous and very 
desponding. 

‘'Have you heard from Dr. Erlau this morning?" 
he inquired of Thea. 

“Yes, he is no better ; he is now in bed. He has 
the fever." 

The councillor groaned in despair over this in- 
formation. 

“It is no use to wait," said he ; “I must have some 
one in whom I have confidence : send for the young 
doctor." 

“Do you mean Eric, father?" asked she, almost 
bewildered by surprise that her father would thus humble 
himself. 

“Yes, if he will come. I have treated the whole 
family shamefully, but if his father could forgive me, 
and come at my call, I have hope that the son will do 
the same. I have missed them all more than tongue 
can tell ; have never felt anything but anxiety since I 
forbade them my house." 

“They are all so kind and good, father, are such 
sincere Christians, that I am sure they have no malice. 
Dr. Eric will come if you send for him." 

A servant was sent, and in a very short time Eric 
was standing by the bedside, his serene assuring man- 


172 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


ner giving comfort to the invalid, who placed himself 
with all confidence in his hands. 

Although not a word was spoken between Eric and 
Thea during his daily visits, except in the presence of 
the father, yet it was inexpressible pleasure to both to 
see each other, and the councillor looked forward to 
his coming with eagerness. 

Days went by and Dr. Erlau was in great danger. 
He had overtaxed his strength, had taken no rest or rec- 
reation, and the fever had full sway over his undermined 
vitality. The wife and daughters and Eric watched him 
night and day, and hoped and prayed for his recovery, 
always in subjection to God’s will. 

The fearful fancies that thronged his fevered brain 
at length took their flight, and he slept the first real 
sleep since his illness. 

The watchers scarcely stirred, in their anxiety to keep 
him undisturbed, and perfect silence reigned within and 
without the old house. 

Old Reika sat in the kitchen, dreading the cry of 
anguish which would come from the sick room if he 
awoke no more to life and love upon earth. 

Hours passed, then Eric, leaning over him, breathed 
a prayer of thankfulness : Thank God ; the crisis is 
past ; he will live !” 

Too feeble almost to breathe, helpless as an infant, 
yet the change had come ; all that was needed now was 
careful nursing, and that he would surely have, and the 
mother and daughters knelt by the bedside and gave 
silent thanks to God for his great mercy to them. 


IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW. 1 73 

The whole neighborhood rejoiced to know that their 
beloved physician was out of danger. * Offers of help 
and dainties for the invalid came from all directions, 
appreciated by the family as proving the high estima- 
tion in which the husband and father was held by his 
neighbors. 

It was many weeks before Dr. Erlau could leave 
his room ; and it was a time of rejoicing when he came 
for the first time to the family sitting-room — a weak, 
bowed figure, leaning upon the arm of Eric, his pale 
features and dim eyes lighted by love and gratitude 
that by God's grace their loving care and attention had 
allowed him to again be with them. 

Frieda was beside him, her beautiful sightless eyes 
turned to him, in her helpless way trying to anticipate 
every want. 

Meta from the beginning of his illness had done 
more than her share of housework, to allow her mother 
to stay with the invalid, and in steady occupation and 
anxiety as to the result of her father's illness almost 
forgot her own troubles. 

Margaret was the devoted daughter she had not 
been in her early days ; but trial and sorrow had not 
been without their influence for good upon her charac- 
ter, and her father's great kindness to her and her child 
increased the love she always cherished for him. 

Little Marie played with her dolls beside his arm- 
chair, frequently calling his medical attention to the 
ailments of her charge, which was always cheerfully 
given, and Erna brought him all the items of news 


174 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY, 


from Friehausen to keep him interested in the outside 
world from which for a season he was withdrawn. 

Fritz came from Berlin as often as he could, if to 
remain but a night, and always brought the sunshine 
of a cheerful spirit, so the time of Dr. Erlau' s conva- 
lescence was not a dreary one to him or to any member 
of the family. 

All missed the loved Else, and none more than Erna. 
She was her playmate, her loved sister, for Erna was a 
daughter of the house and knew no other home. Of 
her mother’s two brothers in America she knew noth- 
ing, although at Dr. and Frau Erlau' s request she wrote 
to them twice a year. But there never came a reply to 
her letters, yet from a sense of duty to them and her 
dead mother she kept up her side of the correspondence. 

There had been for some time a report in circulation 
in the neighborhood that the brothers had accumulated 
wealth in California, but Dr. Erlau' s family had received 
no direct communication to that effect, so scarcely put 
credence in it. 

Eric attended to his father's patients together with 
his own and they consulted together in regard to the 
treatment of the ailing ones, and thus without tiring 
him Eric kept up his father's interest in his beloved 
profession, and made him feel that, although weak and 
frail, he was not useless. The tie between father and 
son was very sweet and tender, and during this period 
of convalescence grew daily more so. 

Thus it was that, though recovering from an illness 
that nearly resulted in death. Dr. Erlau followed the 


IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW, 1 75 


course of the councillor's chronic ailment, which had 
made such rapid progress in the past few weeks, and 
he and Eric were anxious as to the result. 

‘‘Added to his bodily infirmities," said Eric one 
day to his father, ‘ ‘ I think he is much worried over 
financial matters ; he has met with heavy losses lately." 

“The times are hard upon everybody just now," 
replied Dr. Erlau; “but I think of the bodily suifer- 
ing in store for him if he is not willing to have the 
cause removed by surgical aid." 

“ Yes ; there remains a chance for life and a reason- 
able share of health if he will submit to an operation, 
which I doubt." 

“ It is a fearful risk." 

“Yes, but his only chance for life. I saw the opera- 
tion performed successfully while I was in the hospital 
in Berlin, and was glad that I had the opportunity of 
witnessing it. ' ' 

“ Have you mentioned this to the councillor .?" 

“No; I wished your advice upon the subject. It 
is but one chance in a hundred that it will be successful, 
but it is all that remains to him." 

“It is sad that he must be called upon to decide, 
but I see no other way. I have never witnessed this 
operation, it is one that is seldom performed ; but I can 
see the risk the patient incurs, and even if I were well 
I would not dare to undertake it. 

“ I assisted in the operation in the hospital in Berlin." 

“Would you undertake it?" inquired his father 
in surprise. 


176 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY. 


‘'No. I would state the case to the councillor, 
tell him of Prof. Newman’s success with like cases, and 
ask his consent to send to Berlin for him.” 

The next day Eric explained the matter to the 
councillor, and to his surprise found him fully prepared 
and willing for the operation, the only objection being 
the sending for Prof. Newman. 

“I will trust myself entirely in your and your father’s 
hands,” said he. “I hope he will be able to come; I 
want no strange doctors about me.” 

“But, dear Herr Councillor,” said Eric, “while I 
deeply appreciate your confidence in me, it is putting 
a great responsibility upon me. For my sake I hope 
you will be willing to have Prof. Newman.” 

“ There is no need. I have every confidence in you 
and your father ; I will wait until he is able to come.” 

“I will be able to go by the last of the week, ’’said 
Dr. Erlau when Eric repeated this conversation to him. 
“I will be glad to be privileged to witness it, and do 
not see but you have the same chance of succeeding 
as in the former experience. At all events the coun- 
cillor cannot be agitated further in the matter.” 

So it was decided. Dr. Erlau was able to go, to 
the great satisfaction of Dr. Eric and the councillor, 
and the operation was a perfect success. 

Eric devoted every moment he could spare from 
other patients to be by the bedside of the councillor, 
who had refused to have a strange nurse but relied 
upon him and Thea and his faithful servants, who were 
liberally rewarded for their extra services. 


IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW. 1 77 

While yet unable to go upon his rounds Dr. Erlau 
passed part of every day with the councillor and the 
two old men talked of many things, among which the 
concerns of the Kingdom to which they were both has- 
tening were not forgotten, and Dr. Erlau' s steady faith 
was a lamp to the feet of the councillor on his heaven- 
ward way. 


12 


178 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


CHAPTER XII. 

FRIEDA'S GOOD WORK. 

Heavy clouds had thus passed from the homes of 
Dr. Erlau and the councillor, and the success in life 
of one and another member of the family cheered and 
encouraged all. 

Fritz had been taken in as partner in the business 
of his employers, and both the main factory and the 
branch one in Berlin were doing a fine business. 

Prof. Frohman had been promoted to the director- 
ship of the college in Friehausen, and the whole Erlau 
family took as much pleasure in his' advancement as 
though he and Emmi were in truth members of the 
family. ^ 

The councillor paid Eric the same sum he would 
have paid the Berlin professor for like service; for 
owing to the success of the . operation, and the good 
treatment received afterwards, he was in good health, 
something which he had never again expected to be, 
and was deeply grateful to Eric. 

Through this event Fritz also was a gainer, for Eric 
lost no time in paying back the sum he had advanced, 
with interest, and it was now placed to his credit in 
the Berlin Bank. 

Dr. Eric had means sufficient before that date to 
pay Fritz, but it was not accepted, the younger brother 


FRIEDA S GOOD WORK, 


179 


affirming with truth that he did not need it, and would 
not accept it until Eric had performed some great feat 
of skill for which he received liberal payment. The 
time had come and Fritz accepted without demur, for 
he had a plan in his head which only needed time to 
develop to his satisfaction. 

Meta had become an experienced housekeeper, re- 
lieving her mother of all care of management, and Reika 
often said, ''All our girls are good, but Meta is the 
best of all. ' ' 

At length the plans of Fritz were so far completed 
that he felt them substantial enough to bear imparting 
to others, and for that purpose paid a visit home, where 
as usual all were delighted to see him. 

"Father,'' said he that evening, "I have sold out 
my interest in the factory in Berlin and am intending 
to build one for myself here in Friehausen." 

Dr. Erlau' s face flushed with pleasure at the thought 
of having Fritz at home, but in a moment it clouded. 

"Oh, my son," said he, "have you considered 
what it will cost to build a factory ? I fear it will go 
far ahead of your calculations and means. I have 
never yet heard any one who has built even a small 
dwelling say that the sum intended was sufficient. One 
must leave much margin for unlooked-for expenses." 

"With the large sum I got for my interest in the 
factory, and the money paid me by Eric, and my own 
savings for some years, I do not see where I can fail ; 
besides, father, you know the old saying, 'Nothing 
risked, nothing gained.' " 


i8o 


THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. 


'‘1 would not think so much of the risk if I or 
Eric had the means to help you if you get into a tight 
place, but you know that would be impossible/' 

‘'I do know it, father, and would not upon any 
consideration have you cripple yourself to help me. 
Whatever risk there be in the undertaking I will take 
upon myself." 

‘ ‘ There can be no risk as to the success of the busi- 
ness if once established. Friehausen is an excellent 
place for a factory of the kind ; and a manufacturing 
plant of any kind will be a great help to the neighbor- 
hood. The only risk is in not having your means hold 
out to complete such a large building as you propose." 

have had the counsel of the architect whom I 
mean to employ, and he made many calculations and 
assures me that the sum I have will be ample." 

^^Then you would not have it built by contract ?" 

‘'No, indeed ; I shall employ my own builders, and 
pay them at stated times. Then I can oversee all 
the proceedings, having the management in my own 
hands." 

“Well, you have a clear head of your own, though 
inclined to be a little venturesome ; yet at your age I 
suppose I was not so cautious as I am now. All I wish 
to impress upon you is not to overstep your means and 
bring a world of care upon your shoulders." 

Fritz assured his father that he would be careful, 
then he took a walk to the home of Councillor Turo 
and while he was gone Dr. Erlau told of the plans of 
Fritz to the mother and daughters, who were surprised 


FRIEDAS GOOD WORK. l8l 

and delighted over the prospect of having him so near 
through the day and at home at night. 

‘^And to think he owes all his success to his own 
exertions/' said Meta with pride. wonder if the 
councillor will be told of it." 

think so," replied her father. '‘Fritz wished to 
call to congratulate him upon his recovery, as it was his 
duty as well as pleasure to do, but no doubt had it in 
mind to impart his plans at the same time." 

This surmise was correct ; Fritz did tell the coun- 
cillor, and received the same warning that his father had 
given, but also hearty encouragement as to the success 
of the business when once established. 

In a few weeks the building was commenced, and 
Fritz had his hands full in superintending the workmen 
and supplying their needs. The councillor encouraged 
Dr. Erlau with the opinion that while Fritz was ven- 
turesome he was not reckless, and both had a high 
opinion of his capability. 

During this busy time Fritz was not oblivious to 
the welfare and comfort of every member of his father's 
family, and noticed that Frieda seemed much depressed 
in spirits. 

"She was never very animated or light-hearted," 
remarked he to Margaret, "as indeed who could be, 
shut out from God's cheery sunlight } but she seems to 
me more serious and pensive than ever. Do you think 
that Else's death is altogether the cause.?" 

" No ; she grieves for her loss, but the main cause of 
her melancholy is that she feels herself of no use in the 


182 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


world, and considers that she is only a burden to others. 
She wonders why dear Else was taken while she is left/' 

‘^Can nothing be said to change the current of her 
thoughts ?" 

‘‘I have said all I could to comfort her, and father 
and mother have told her that her sweet patience in 
bearing her cross of blindness has been a benediction to 
us all. More than all we have tried to impress upon 
her the mercy and goodness of God, who has surrounded 
her with comforts and given her parents and brothers 
and sisters who delight to do anything they can to make 
her happy. ’ ' 

‘‘Does that seem to cheer her.?" 

“Very little. She seldom speaks of what is passing 
in her mind, and when she does it is a regret for her 
uselessness. In vain I tell her the help she is by taking 
so much care of Marie, thus allowing me to assist in 
the household, and we praise her music and tell her truly 
that it refreshes us. ’ ' 

“ I see no help for her," said Fritz shaking his head 
in perplexity. “The poor child must fight out the 
battle alone. I am glad that Meta is such a help to 
mother, now that Emmi has left us." 

“Yes, it is wonderful how she has taken to house- 
work ; yet she does not neglect her books as much as 
one would suppose, but I believe enjoys them more than 
when she gave all her time to them. As for housework, 
what she commenced from a sense of duty she really 
has learned to like, and is a beautiful housekeeper, and, 
as you know, a superior cook." 


PRIED AS GOOD WORK. 1 83 

Another joy to the family was that the councillor had 
given consent to the marriage of Thea and Dr. Eric 
on condition that they would make their home with 
him, which they gladly agreed to do, and the day was 
appointed for the nuptials, and the whole Erlau family 
was invited to witness the marriage. 

In remembrance of the time-honored custom, Frau 
Erlau unlocked the closet in the linen-room and taking 
out the necklace put it into the hand of Eric the even- 
ing of the wedding. 

It is for your bride, my Eric,’’ said she. As the 
eldest son of the house you are entitled to it, and I 
gladly give the charge of it into dear Thea’s hands.” 

^^I have forfeited my right to it, dear mother,” said 
he, a flush passing over his face and his voice lowered. 

No, my son ; you repented of your error, and have 
been forgiven by your Heavenly Father and your earthly 
parents. I put it in your hand with the assurance that 
you are entirely worthy of the ancient heirloom.” 

''But I feel humiliated in accepting it.” 

"You have no right to decline it. You are only 
accepting it for Thea. She knows of it, and, if you 
prefer it, I will clasp it upon her neck this evening as 
your father’s mother did upon mine the evening of my 
marriage. ’ ’ 

"Do, dear mother,” said Eric, much relieved. 
"The association is to me far from pleasant ; that will 
make it at least endurable.” 

Margaret laid aside her mourning for that one even- 
ing, and robed in pure white looked as beautiful and 


i84 THE DOCTORS S FAMILY. . 

youthful as any guest there, and little Marie was charm- 
ing. 

Frieda had not intended going, but Fritz and Mar- 
garet, and indeed the whole family, urged her so much 
to go that she knew it would be selfish to refuse, 
especially as Frau Erlau had given permission for Reika 
to go, and with the servants of the councillor witness 
the festivities, and Frieda could not stay alone in the 
house, nor would she deprive Reika of the pleasure. 

So the house was closed and all went, and though 
poor Frieda had but little enjoyment yet for the sake of 
the others she said nothing of wishing to return home, 
although longing to go. Little Marie flitted through 
the large beautiful rooms like a gay butterfly, and her 
young mother could not forbear giving her an admiring 
glance now and then, as did the whole company. 

At length she grew sleepy, it being long past her 
hour of retiring, and Margaret went quietly out with 
her, and up to the dressing-room for their wraps, quick- 
ly followed by Frieda. 

‘^Let me take her home, Margaret/' said she; 
am heartily fired of being here. Do let me go." 

I will go with you, dear ; I cannot think of letting 
you go alone." 

‘‘Reika will go with me, and come back if she 
wishes. I will care for Marie just as you do ; will hear 
her say her prayers and stay by her until she is asleep." 

“Oh, yes, mamma, do let me go with Aunt Frieda," 
said little Marie ; “I will take her by the hand and lead 
her. I love to be with Aunt Frieda." 


PRIEDA'S GOOD WORK. 


185 


Please tell Reika to come and go with us, sister,'' 
said Frieda, and Margaret descended to the veranda 
where the old woman sat, taking in the scene from the 
open windows. 

Reika was quite as eager to go as was Marie ; she 
had been longing to be in her comfortable bed for more 
than an hour. 

Frieda left without regret the beautiful home where 
the strains of sweet music from the stringed band only 
made her more melancholy, and they were soon at home 
and up in Margaret's room. 

You can go back to the councillor's, Reika, if you 
wish," said she. ''I am not at all afraid of staying 
alone till you all come. ' ’ 

No, indeed ; I never was so glad to get home ; no 
going back for me." 

^‘Well, you need not sit up ; I will let the others in 
when they come." 

The old woman was not slow in obeying ; she was 
soon in bed and asleep and Frieda prepared the little 
one for bed, heard her simple prayer, then sang a lullaby 
song. 

''Aunt Frieda, you always sing as if you were sad ; 
and to-night it sounds as if you were crying. Are you 
crying. Aunt Frieda?" 

‘ ‘ What makes you think so, dear ? Do you see any 
tears?" 

^^No, but it sounds as if you were sad. Are you 
sorry you came home with me? Do go back. Aunt 
Frieda. I am not a bit afraid to stay here." 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


1 86 


‘‘No, no, dear ; I would rather stay by you. I was 
glad to come home.'' 

“ Then why are you nearly crying.?" 

“People sometimes cry without having any good 
cause. ' ' 

“Mamma cries sometimes, but it is about papa." 

“Yes; but go to sleep, my darling. I will sing 
again and will not cry." 

Marie closed her eyes, and soon her regular breath- 
ing proved that she was in the land of dreams ; then 
Frieda's tears flowed freely, though she blamed herself 
for thus giving way to her feelings when all were so 
happy. 

“If I could only do something to prove that my life 
has not been an utter failure," she thought to herself ; 
“but there is nothing in the world that a blind girl can 
do to help any one." 

She had sat thus for some time when her quick ear 
heard stealthy steps in the corridor, followed by the slow 
opening of a drawer. 

Blind though she was Frieda was not nervous. She 
had all her life been protected from unnecessary alarms, 
and in that quiet neighborhood nothing had ever hap- 
pened to frighten her. She supposed some one had 
come for the professional services of her father or Eric, 
and that some member of the family had returned for 
what was required ; but as no sound followed she knew 
that she was mistaken, and opening the door she lis- 
tened. 

‘ ‘ Reika has forgotten something below stairs, and has 


PRIED AS GOOD WORK. 1 87 

gone down/' thought she as she returned to the bedside 
of Marie. 

But Reika was sound asleep and heard nothing. 
The interruption had, however, done Frieda one favor, 
it drew her thoughts from herself. She kept wondering 
what was detaining Reika, and while she was pondering 
over it she heard the family returning, chatting pleasant- 
ly as was their custom, and went to admit them, and 
Reika was forgotten. 

Margaret came immediately to her room, and greeted 
Frieda with a grateful kiss. 

'‘You did me a great favor, dear Frieda," said she. 
"I really did enjoy the evening, knowing that dear 
Marie was sleeping sweetly in her bed under your good 
care. ' ' 

Frieda was gratified that she had been of use, and 
after a few pleasant words in regard to the party they 
separated for the night, and Margaret, going to the bed- 
side of her sleeping child, pressed a kiss upon her fair 
brow. 

In a short time the whole household was wrapped in 
slumber with the exception of Frieda, whose mind, now 
that she was alone again, recurred to Reika. 

She was on the point of rising to go to the old 
woman's room, to ascertain if she were in bed, when the 
slow scraping of a file and stealthy sounds in the linen- 
room arrested her attention. 

She sat up in bed to listen, then, without a thought 
of danger to herself, opened her door and stepped out 
into the corridor. The sounds ceased ; but, certain that 


THE DOCTORS FAMILY. 


I88 

she had not been deceived, she waited in silence. The 
sound commenced again, and knowing that the money 
which Fritz had brought from Berlin that day to pay his 
builders was in the wall closet she feared it was in dan- 
ger, and gliding down the corridor she pounded upon 
his door. 

Fritz,"' she cried, '‘Fritz, come ! Some one is in 
the linen-room !’" 

Her brother rushed out half-asleep ; there was a wild 
rush from the direction of the linen-room and a hurrying 
of feet down the stairway ; the burglars had escaped. 

It took several minutes for Fritz to light his lamp 
and throw some clothing about him, and during that 
time Frieda smelled something burning. 

"Oh, Fritz," she cried, "they have set the house on 
fire !" and filled with terror for her loved ones Frieda 
ran to Margaret's door and pounded upon it until she 
wakened her, then down another corridor to her parents' 
room, then to Meta's, which Erna shared, then up the 
steps to Reika's. In a few minutes the whole family 
were helping Fritz battle with the flames by bringing 
water from the kitchen, and in a short time the fire was 
extinguished. 

Very little damage was done, owing to the fire being 
confined to a deep closet the door of which had been 
almost closed, thus excluding the air. 

It was occasioned by a lamp which the burglars had 
placed in the closet while prying the lock of the wall 
closet, and the flame had set fire to clothing hanging 
over it. But for the quick ear and acute sense of smell 


FRIEDA^ S GOOD WORK. 189 

possessed by Frieda the dwelling would have been con- 
sumed and the family perhaps lost their lives. 

And to think it was our little Frieda who was per- 
mitted to be the one to save us said Dr. Erlau, pat- 
ting her cheek. ‘'Few people in a long lifetime have 
the opportunity of doing such a good deed.'' 

“We would surely have all perished," said Margaret, 
trembling with excitement. “I was in such a deep 
sleep that I could not understand Frieda's words, even 
after being waked by the pounding upon the door." 

“She has saved me from many an anxious hour," 
said Fritz. “If the thieves had carried off the money 
with which I am to pay the builders to-morrow, I do n't 
know what I should have done." 

“God has been good to us to spare us that trouble, 
and, above all, to save our lives ; and dear Frieda did a 
noble work in so promptly giving the alarm." 

The next day it was ascertained that the burglars had 
followed Fritz from Berlin, having seen him get the 
money from the bank, and had loitered about the forest 
back of the dwelling until night. 

Fritz said what he knew to be the case when he said 
that Frieda had saved him many anxious hours ; for, 
although the factory was but half completed, and he had 
as yet made but two payments out of the four which he 
had contracted with the builders, he saw that his money 
would not be enough by several hundred dollars. 

As the building had proceeded he had seen where 
many improvements could be made, both in the plans 
and materials, and had made them, feeling that, as the 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY, 


190 

work was to be done but once, it were better to have it 
done right, and hoping to have no difficulty in the pay- 
ments which were yet in the distance. 

But the workmen — all his neighbors, for he had 
obeyed the wishes of his father, who considered it a duty 
to give employment to those among whom he lived — 
were depending upon their labor for bread for them- 
selves and families and worked with a will. They felt 
that payment was as secure as though already in hand, 
and the work proceeded briskly, and for Fritz the time 
for the last payment was fast coming around. 

The time his father had warned him against had 
come, and Fritz knew not which way to turn to meet 
his obligation to his builders. 

wish I could help you, Fritz,'' said his father 
anxiously ; ‘ ^ but, as you know, the death in the family 
and my long illness and other unexpected events have 
reduced my income for this year. I see no other plan 
for you but to stop work upon the factory until pros- 
pects brighten." 

Dr. Eric, too, was deeply concerned, and made the 
only offer he could make to Fritz. 

‘‘My wedding journey and a new carriage and horse, 
necessary for my profession, have taken all my ready 
money," said he, “but I long to help you as you once 
helped me ; I can ask a loan for you from the coun- 
cillor." 

“Never!" said Fritz flushing ; “ do you think, Eric, 
that I have no more conscience than to subject you to 
such a humiliation 


FRIEDAS GOOD WORK. I9I 

would be that/' replied Eric, '^to ask a loan 
for myself or family in such a short time after becoming 
the councillor's son-in-law, but I would do anything 
that was not dishonorable to help you, Fritz, and I see 
no other way. ' ' 

‘ ^ I will take father' s advice, and stop work upon 
the factory until I am able to pay for it. The men shall 
not lie out of a dollar through me, but can seek work 
elsewhere for which they will receive prompt pay- 
ment.^' 

Fritz went home resolved to go to the factory that 
evening and dismiss his builders ; but this was not done, 
for to his joy a very unexpected thing happened : Dr. 
Erlau and his wife had '' cast their bread upon the 
waters," and after many years it had returned. 

During his absence his father had received a letter 
from a lawyer in America inclosing one from Erna's 
uncle, saying that his brother had died and had left all 
his property to his sister's only child, Erna, who was 
in the care of Dr. Erlau of Friehausen. 

A copy of the will was inclosed, in which was stated 
that, owing to said Dr. Erlau having given Erna a home 
where she was as a daughter of the house, the money 
was left in his care to use as he thought best, having 
full and sole control of it until Erna should become of 
age. 

‘^So the report of the neighbors was, after all, cor- 
rect," said Dr. Erlau, reading the letter aloud again 
after Fritz joined the family circle. 

''How will you invest it for her?" inquired Frau 


192 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


Erlau, while Erna was silent, not knowing what to say 
over this unexpected state of affairs. 

‘^We will consult her,'' replied Dr. Erlau turning 
to Erna. ''Of course, dear, it is not expected that one 
so young could know the best way to invest such a sum, 
but we would like to have your opinion." 

"Give it to Fritz to finish his factory," said Erna ; 
"that would give me more joy than anything else." 

Fritz thanked her heartily for her kind thoughtful- 
ness, and Dr. Erlau read the will again that Erna might 
fully comprehend it. 

"It is much more than Fritz will need, and we will 
gladly make him a loan which he can return with in- 
terest before you are of age. The rest we will invest in 
the safest way we can." 

" Poor uncle !" said Erna. " I know he must have 
been lonely away off there in America without wife and 
children. I am glad you had me write to him, not 
because of the money but because he was my dear 
mother's brother." 

"Are you sure, dear Erna, that you want to lend me 
the money to finish my factory?" inquired Fritz. 

"It is my only pleasure in having it. What use 
have I for money in this good home where every want 
is supplied ?" 

And thus it was that the factory was completed, and 
Fritz through the help given him by Erna was a bene- 
factor to the working people of Friehausen, giving many 
employment, which he considered the very best manner, 
as a rule, of assisting. 


FRIEDAS GOOD WORK, 1 93 

Meta in the mean time had become so interested 
in housekeeping, especially the culinary branch of it, 
that knowing the importance of well-cooked food as re- 
garded the health and well-being of homes she felt it 
upon her conscience to aid others acquiring the knowl- 
edge, so established a free cooking-school in Friehausen, 
assisted by Erna. 

It was a success from the beginning ; for it was not 
only a cheerful place of meeting for the young girls of 
the neighborhood, but all felt that they were acquiring 
knowledge that would make their homes happier and 
more healthful. So in this way Meta too was a bene- 
factor to her fellow-creatures, and felt that she was not 
living in vain. 

It was noticed that ever since the adventure with 
the burglars and the fire Frieda had been more cheer- 
ful ; was happier. Her smile was more frequent, and 
her sweet voice more frequently heard in song. 

All knew that her generous heart was rejoicing that 
she had been privileged in her darkened life to do some 
good, and she supplemented it by her devotion to the 
little grandchildren who, like young birds, flew home 
to the old Nest. Eric's little son and Emmi's daugh- 
ter were sharers with Marie in the love of the grand- 
parents ; nor was she the loser by the sharing : there was 
love enough for all, and more. 

One evening a goodly company was assembled about 
the long table in the great dining-room of the Erlau 
homestead. 

It was Dr. Erlau' s birthday and every one of the 


194 


THE DOCTOR'S FAMILY. 


large family of children and grandchildren were gathered 
in honor of the event. 

Old Reika, grown feeble, refused to give up her share 
of the cooking for this auspicious occasion to any one, 
not even to Meta, who was known throughout the 
neighborhood as an authority in such matters ; but 
the birthday supper was all that could be desired. 

Fritz was called upon for a toast and, as no one who 
expected anything of him ever was disappointed, he arose 
promptly, a glass of pure cold water in his hand. 

‘‘To our dear parents,'' he said tenderly; “the 
dear care-takers, who in storm and sunshine always wel- 
comed the birds to the home nest. They have shared 
with us our joys and sorrows, have taught us by precept 
and example our love for God and our fellow men, have 
trained us for heaven. Thank God for our dear Chris- 
tian parents and for the Old Home Nest !" 


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